tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12346648022536773132024-03-05T07:50:51.536+00:00Leopard and BrutAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-53535187821379934932018-05-22T22:42:00.002+01:002018-05-22T22:49:57.021+01:00"Go dtí go saorófar mná na hÉireann ní chuirfear i gcrích fuascailt na bhfear" - Hanna Sheehy SkeffingtonTo be rather ignorant, I can't wait for this referendum to be over. I'm finding it hard to walk down the road, have a conversation or just scroll through social media without opinions being shoved into my face. But you see I'm a bit of a hypocrite. Because I'm not actually sick of both sides being shoved in my face. But rather one side. A backwards side. Am I wrong for writing that? Probably! I have been brought up in a democracy. I have lived 29 years where in my life, everyone has different opinions. Women have fought for them. Sure aren't we entitled to them? But right now I just can't except the opinions of what are coming from some people during this referendum. In fact, having heard the opinions of some people, some people that are close to me, I don't think I can ever look at them in the same way. I would be much more grateful if I hadn't heard their thoughts. Their two cents. I would be blissfully ignorant. Because I actually feel angry when I think about them now. How am I supposed to talk to them normally when all I feel is disgust in the pit of my stomach? Is it immature of me to not see past that this is their own opinion and that they are entitled to it? I wish I could, but I can't! I have a side ways head tilt now when I talk to them. Because I just can't get my head around the backwardness of it all. And I'm frightened. I'm frightened for the future of this country. Frightened at what the outcome of this referendum may be. Frightened that Ireland may still be in a backwards state.<br />
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Educate yourself. Understand what this referendum is really about. And visit <a href="http://refcom2018.ie/">refcom2018.ie</a> that produces an independent guide.<br />
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All I know is that we have an opportunity to use our vote this Friday. A vote that past women (and men) have fought tiresomely for. While I won't tell you who to vote for, and I haven't told you who I am voting for, all I can stress is the urgency and the importance of expressing our right to vote. Don't abandon that.<br />
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"Until the women of Ireland are free, the men will not achieve emancipation" - Hanna Sheehy Skeffington<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-65459005042298849412017-11-24T20:46:00.001+00:002017-11-24T20:46:59.938+00:00L & B Gift Guide: Luxury for Her<br />
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/gift_guide_luxury_for_her/set?.embedder=4768595&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=231338683" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank"><img alt="L & B GIFT GUIDE: LUXURY FOR HER" border="0" height="365" src="https://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=v5FxCXDuoh6GhW2fojGVA&id=JPwWTa7P5xGelqsPWGy1RQ&size=c600x548" title="L & B GIFT GUIDE: LUXURY FOR HER" width="400" /></a></div>
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Saint Laurent Monogramme bag (<a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/ie/en/product/917596/saint_laurent/monogramme-blogger-leather-shoulder-bag">Net-a-porter</a>)</div>
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Gucci Marmont wallet (<a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/ie/en/product/993182/Gucci/marmont-textured-leather-wallet">Net-a-porter</a>)</div>
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Olivia Von Halle (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/brown-thomas-navigation-catalog/lila-nika-stripe-pyjamas/20x2356xct0006lilanik.html?cgid=root#q=olivia+von+halle&start=1">Brown Thomas</a>)- these have a €100 discount in BT!</div>
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Artis 5 piece collection (Brown Thomas)- these have a €35 discount in BT!</div>
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iPhone 8 <a href="https://www.apple.com/ie/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-8#00">(Apple</a>)</div>
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Gucci printed t-shirt (<a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/ie/en/product/993812/Gucci/appliqued-distressed-printed-cotton-jersey-t-shirt">Net-a-porter)</a></div>
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Giorgio Armani Si Nacre (<a href="http://www.boots.ie/giorgio-armani-si-nacre-sparkling-limited-edition-eau-de-parfum-spray-50ml-10239083">Boots</a>)- smells divine!</div>
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Sunday Riley face oil (<a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/sunday-riley-juno-hydroactive-cellular-face-oil.html">Cult Beauty</a>)</div>
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Charlotte Tilbury trilogy set (<a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/charlotte-tilbury-magic-skin-trilogy.html">Cult Beauty</a>)</div>
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Givenchy Duetto pocket bag (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/brown-thomas-navigation-catalog/duetto-pocket-bag/26x2236xbb05462784417.html?cgid=root&dwvar_26x2236xbb05462784417_color=Multi">Brown Thomas</a>)- reduced to €600</div>
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Chupi 'Gold Farthing' necklace <a href="https://www.chupi.com/products/worth-your-weight-in-gold-farthing-coin-necklace">(Chupi</a>)</div>
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Adidas Ultraboost (<a href="https://www.sizeofficial.ie/product/white-adidas-ultraboost-laceless/000072_sizeie/">Size</a>)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-7269659601115320822017-11-24T20:46:00.000+00:002017-11-24T20:46:50.943+00:00L & B Gift Guide: €100 and under for Her<br />
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/gift_guide_under_100_for/set?.embedder=4768595&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=231341858" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="L & B GIFT GUIDE: Under 100 for Her" border="0" height="387" src="https://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=gsqxpu04sENXXFHHtJxFKA&id=2mDqHbjP5xGoNBZZiWqlIQ&size=c600x581" title="L & B GIFT GUIDE: Under 100 for Her" width="400" /></a></div>
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UGG slippers (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/brown-thomas-navigation-catalog/scuffette-ii-slippers/903x10004x0522231919.html?cgid=root#q=ugg&lang=default&start=1">Brown Thomas</a>)- currently down to €84</div>
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ABH Sugar Glow kit (<a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/anastasia-beverly-hills-sugar-glow-kit.html">Cult Beauty</a>)</div>
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Vans Sk8-Hi women's (<a href="https://www.sizeofficial.ie/product/black-vans-sk8-hi-womens/058161_sizeie/">Size</a>)</div>
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Adidas long sleeve t-shirt (ASOS) 20% off everything this weekend!</div>
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Kylie Cosmetics Koko set <a href="https://www.kyliecosmetics.com/collections/koko/products/koko-kollection-in-love-with-the-koko">(Kylie cosmetics</a>)</div>
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Life Changing magic of not giving a F**k (<a href="https://www.easons.com/the-life-changing-magic-of-not-giving-a-fk--sarah-knight--9781784298470">Easons</a>)</div>
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Jewellery box (<a href="https://www.oliverbonas.com/ie/jewellery/resin-agate-brass-jewellery-box">Oliver Bonas</a>)</div>
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Gin o'clock doormat (<a href="https://myshiningarmour.com/homeware/gin-o-clock-doormat/">My Shining Armour</a>)</div>
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Hendricks Gin (Any supermarket)</div>
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Leopard belt (<a href="https://eu.riverisland.com/p/brown-leather-leopard-faux-pony-hair-belt-710831">River Island</a>)</div>
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Couple next door (<a href="https://www.easons.com/the-couple-next-door-shari-lapena-9780552173148">Easons</a>)</div>
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Rose Gold suitcase (<a href="https://eu.riverisland.com/p/rose-gold-metallic-four-wheel-suitcase-701358">River Island</a>)</div>
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Oskia Renaissance mask (<a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/oskia-renaissance-mask.html">Cult Beauty</a>)</div>
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Cluse watch (<a href="https://cluse.com/model/cluse-laboheme-mesh-fullblack-CL18111">Cluse</a>)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-69595908232807864232017-07-18T19:19:00.000+01:002017-07-18T19:27:55.069+01:00Tried a Tasting Menu?<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Tasting menus you say? Sure that's just a plate with a leaf on it and some drops of sauce right?! Wrong! I swear by them. They are the best way to experience different food groups, cooking techniques, and I simply love them because you've no idea what is coming out from the kitchen and if you will enjoy the dish. It's like a spectacle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The only draw back for tasting menus for me have been the price of them. They usually run into the 80+ mark and it's just not a viable choice as a dining option for me at the moment. Don't get me wrong though...the heavy prices are usually reflective of the quality of food and the people behind the produce. Some of the best dining experiences I have had to date have been with a Tasting Menu- <a href="https://loamgalway.com/">LOAM</a> and <a href="http://aniarrestaurant.ie/">ANIAR </a>(both in Galway!) were out of this world! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Dining out is definitely mine and Ev's thing...we aren't really into spending our money in the pub on a weekly basis and always jump at the chance to try a new place as we love food with whatever left over cash we have. But as we are in the midst of deep saving, lavish meals out have been put on the burner, despite me always trailing and lusting over restauranteurs social feeds! Roll on Brioche who have put on a tasting experiment programme the last few weeks- 5 courses for a mere €29. Only a provisional time slot has been put on for this experiment, but I really hope it comes back as it was fantastic fun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Five surprise courses and all were super. But my favourite had to be the ceviche and kimchi plate- I am loving fermented and cured foods at the minute so that was totally up my street. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">Brioche is a great little spot. Spot on decor. Great and knowledgable service. Open kitchen- I love when I see this in restaurants. And located in Ranelagh- possibly one of my most favourite locations in Dublin!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(New potatoes, cucumber, black olive and nuts)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(Ceviche and Kimchi)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(Lamb and Apple)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(Flan and peach sorbet)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(This wrap top is now on sale in Zara)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(My hot date!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="https://loamgalway.com/">Loam</a> (Galway)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://aniarrestaurant.ie/">Aniar</a> (Galway)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://www.bastible.com/food">Bastible</a> (Dublin)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://cliffhousehotel.ie/">Cliff House</a> (Waterford)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://www.brioche.ie/">Brioche</a> (Dublin)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://www.nevenmaguire.com/">Neven's</a> (Cavan)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Next up to try- €33 Tasting Menu on a Tuesday at <a href="http://www.richmondrestaurant.ie/">Richmond</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Have you any hidden gems? Recommendations?</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-82719210317626715982017-05-03T19:24:00.002+01:002017-05-03T19:51:57.361+01:00My bitterness<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I have struggled with bitterness for some time. It's actually consumed me. Consumed my daily train of thought. Consumed every day actions. Consumed my relationships with family and friends. I think the bitterness began when I felt the need to constantly compare myself to others. What others had/are achieving and why did I feel like I was falling behind. People have said what have you to be bitter about? Your healthy, your engaged, you've a business! And then I feel guilty. Guilty for having an emotion such as bitterness.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Since a child, I was an overachiever. If I was to whip out old school reports- they would always be glowing in praise. I couldn't ever settle being just ok when I was young. I had to be good at everything, a high achiever. I always wanted good grades. I always wanted to receive praise. Not even wanting to receive. I CRAVED praise. I loved winning awards- student of the year this...top of the class for this...highest score of a grade etc...! I loved seeing words such as 'enthusiastic', 'bright', 'ambitious' and 'intelligent' next to my name. They were goals. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I suppose my first smack of reality and dissapointment and I kid you not, I still think about was at the beginning of Year 6 in my primary school in London. I loved the idea of being a head girl so badly. I was obsessed with Enid Blyton books and had gotten the idea in my head that if you were a head girl you could go on to do great things- that people would want to work with you. Yep at the tender age of 11, I had began to think about the workforce! I wasn't picked as Head Girl. I wasn't even nominated for it and it stung.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My next encounter was in my final year of secondary school and at Graduation in 2007. Yep 10 mighty years ago. And I didn't win Student of the Year. I wasn't even nominated for student of the year. I was so bitter. I remember sitting in this sports hall with my parents right next to me clapping but biting my tongue so hard to not show the look of disappointment on my face. I spent a long time having a conversation in my own head and comparing the winner to me. I went on about it for ages. I did so much comparison. I did win student of the year two other years previously but still couldn't understand why I was bot nominated that year. It was all I could think about...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My third smack of reality was two years later in my final year in Dance College in Dublin. We were rehearsing a contemporary piece and two of the girls in my year were using paper as a prop. Just some random paper that the office were going to recycle. I just happened to open up the piece of a paper and it was a printing of where everyone in my year had been accepted to in the UK for further training. My name was missing. I don't even know why I was so surprised because of course my name was missing. I didn't get in to one college in the UK. So why would my name be printed? But it stung...it stung so bad. I unashamedly sobbed in college that day in front of everyone. Twenty year old me...wailing. I cried probably every night solidly for about month after that also. I felt like a failure. I was a failure. And I don't think at that time I was happy for anyone else who had achieved. Because I was too bitter and worried about my own failings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My stubbornness can be best described as a raging bull. Most people would pick themselves up and try again the next year. Not me. I abandon and move on and set my sights on University. NUI Maynooth to do a degree course in Business and Management. Something I had no experience in. I didn't even take business as a subject in my Leaving Cert in school. But I thought I would be good at it and was playing with the idea of opening up my own business when I would graduate so thought it would be useful. I also thought I would sail through it. I was good in Primary school. I was good in Secondary school. I actually didn't even need to try super hard and did really well. Well college is different and while I still ended up with a first, I wasn't top of my class. I didn't possess the skills that have seen some of the graduates of my year excel in work life. Some of these people are working in top companies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And I suppose the nail in the coffin for me was last year when I was declined twice for a mortgage. I am so fiercely competitive and crave independence that it full on destroyed me. I spent months after that over-analysing everything. Comparing myself to other friends. Friends who had gotten married. Who had got accepted for a mortgage. Who were having kids. And I cried. I cried all the time. God love Evan and my family for putting up with me. I was awful to be around. Cried driving. Cried cleaning. Cried when I went to the toilet. I picked fights. Was more blunter then ever. But more severely grew this rage of bitterness which just began to consume me. I was so angry. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And so I am trying. The awareness of the bitterness is a first step I think right? It's the challenge of not letting it take over is my second step. I don't even like putting it down to as a second step. Because it's on going. It's exists and then it doesn't. The one thing I really do agree with more then ever is the idea of comparison being the thief of joy. There is simply no need for it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I stumbled upon this writer- Rupi Kaur. And one of my favourite things she has written was this sentence; 'and here you are living despite it all'. Yep I guess I still am living.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-80942304027426227132016-12-08T08:00:00.000+00:002016-12-08T08:00:30.169+00:00L & B Christmas Gift Guide: For Him<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The lads can be quite hard to buy for after a while...I have exhausted the jerseys, trainers and jocks bandwagon. And so here is my gift guide for him...be it your dad, husband or male acquaintance- one of these under the stocking will guarantee you some brownie points...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Still looking for a gift for a female- did you catch my last </span><a href="http://leopardandbrut.blogspot.ie/2016/11/l-b-christmas-gift-guide-for-her.html" style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">post</a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">?</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/gift_guide_for_him_2017/set?.embedder=4768595&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=212780696" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;" target="_blank"><img alt="Gift Guide for Him 2017" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=kjUln2bVanHIjdIBoaDIfQ&id=9EabG9y85hGFdyzzyHa90g&size=c600x511" height="340" title="Gift Guide for Him 2017" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Adidas NMD XR1 (</span><a href="https://www.jdsports.ie/product/blue-adidas-originals-nmd-xr1/240760_jdsportsie/" style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">JD Sports</a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">) This colour way is unreal. And I am pretty obsessed with NMD's at the minute.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Mr Jenks Pocket Square- Dublin skyline (<a href="https://mrjenks.com/collections/all-pocket-squares/products/dublin-skyline-silk-pocket-square">Mr Jenks)</a> I actually bought this for Ev prior to Mr McGregor wearing it- it's 100% silk and has Dublin's iconic and historic sites on it. And I also love Mr Jenks vision- a trendy accessories company for men and it's Irish!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Polo Ralph Lauren tartan/leather gloves (<a href="https://www.mrporter.com/en-ie/mens/polo_ralph_lauren/thinsulate--lined-leather-and-wool-and-alpaca-blend-tech-gloves/737006">Mr Porter</a>)- Thinsulate lined but also super stylish. Perfect for Ireland so...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Matt & Nat holdall (<a href="http://www.asos.com/matt-nat/matt-nat-zam-holdall/prd/6531716?iid=6531716&clr=Green&SearchQuery=&cid=13526&pgesize=36&pge=1&totalstyles=240&gridsize=3&gridrow=5&gridcolumn=3">ASOS</a>)- currently has 30% off and is perfect for when he brings you on that getaway you now deserve....lol!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Tom Ford Tobacco & Vanilla beard oil (<a href="https://www.mrporter.com/en-ie/mens/tom_ford_beauty/tobacco-vanille-conditioning-beard-oil--30ml/659776">Mr Porter</a>)- have you smelt the Eau de Parfum? Well they now have a beard oil for all those hairy beasts- mother divine it smells beautiful...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Ugg Scuff slippers (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/gifts/gifts-by-recipient/for-him/ascot-slippers/878x10004x0811130209.html?cgid=gifts-for-him#start=1">Brown Thomas</a>) He will live in these...promise!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">GoPro Hero 5 (<a href="http://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/5996456/Trail/searchtext%3EGOPRO.htm">Argos</a>) It's the latest one and will forever be useful especially for mini breaks away...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Parrot BeBop 2 drone + controller (<a href="http://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/5012141/Trail/searchtext%3EPARROT.htm">Argos)</a> currently has over €350 off and will bring endless hours of fun for the inner child...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Diamond Supply Camp beanie (<a href="https://www.size.co.uk/product/green-diamond-supply-mountaineering-beanie/237751/">Size</a>) Love me some </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">camo...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Charbonnel Et Walker truffles (Brown Thomas)- sharing is caring right...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Alice Made This Edwin </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">bracelet</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> (<a href="https://www.alicemadethis.com/collections/bracelets/products/edwin-grey-copper-bracelet">Alice Made This</a>)- how pretty is this piece, yet masculine at the same time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The Mixer's Manual (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/gifts/gifts-by-recipient/for-him/the-mixers-manual/87x1288x9781742707747.html?cgid=gifts-for-him&dwvar_87x1288x9781742707747_color=Clear">Brown Thomas</a>)- so he can channel pre sofa jumping Tom Cruise.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Ray-Ban rubber round frame (<a href="http://www.selfridges.com/IE/en/cat/ray-ban-rb4171-rubber-round-frame-sunglasses_779-10017-0805289742463/?previewAttribute=Rubber+black#">Selfridges</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-9979348845998042902016-11-26T11:08:00.000+00:002016-11-26T11:08:15.143+00:00L & B CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE: FOR HER<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I can't believe it's that time of the year again...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Leopard and Brut Gift Guide 2016: Gifts for Her</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Adidas Original NMD XR1- (<a href="https://www.jdsports.ie/product/black-adidas-originals-nmd-xr1/239998_jdsportsie/">JD SPORTS</a>)- I have always been a Nike girl, but the last few season's, Adidas have upped their game. These are dope!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Chanel Coco Mademoiselle- (<a href="http://www.debenhams.ie/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10052_10001_123441906499_-1">Debenhams</a>)- Will always be my favourite and there is 15% off still!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Givenchy Antigona mini pink tote (<a href="http://www.harveynichols.com/int/brand/givenchy/157305-antigona-mini-pink-leather-tote/p2763508/">Harvey Nichols</a>)- Sooo cute and Barbie-esque. I would pop a fluffy pom pom key chain on the end and voila.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Victoria Secret Varsity crew jumper (<a href="https://www.victoriassecret.com/pink/hoodies-and-sweatshirts/varsity-crew-pink?ProductID=308410&CatalogueType=OLS">Victoria's Secret</a>) and <a href="https://www.victoriassecret.com/vs-sport/bras-sport-sale/knockout-by-victoria-sport-high-rise-tight-victoria-sport?ProductID=314353&CatalogueType=OLS">these</a> yoga tights I swear by- January sofa sloth's outfit sorted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Shonda Rhimes 'Year of Yes' (<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Year-Yes-Dance-Stand-Person/dp/1471157326/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1480115588&sr=1-1&keywords=shona+rhymes">Amazon</a>)- This women is amazing and I have been dying to read this book.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Miasma essential oils <a href="http://www.hollandandbarrett.ie/shop/product/miaroma-lemon-pure-essential-oil-60060142">(Holland and Barretts</a>)- They are currently half price and I swear by them. I put oils in my diffuser at night time and totally chill out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">MAC Eye shadow Amber times Nine <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/brands/m-a-c/make-up/eyes/eye-shadow-x-9--amber-times-nine/77x1832xmxg702.html?cgid=mac-make-up-eyes#start=1">(Brown Thomas)</a>- must have neutrals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Helen Moore leopard faux fur scarf (<a href="https://myshiningarmour.com/apparel/helen-moore-ocelot-faux-fur-asymmetric-scarf/">My Shining Armour</a>)- obligatory leopard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Lace Triangle bra (<a href="http://eu.topshop.com/en/tseu/product/clothing-485092/lingerie-2313848/lace-triangle-bra-5994394?bi=40&ps=20">Topshop</a>)- every day I am loving more wireless bras. It's like letting them breathe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Gucci Blooms pouch (<a href="https://www.gucci.com/ie/en_gb/pr/women/womens-accessories/womens-small-accessories-tech/womens-pouches/gg-blooms-pouch-p-410079KU2IN8693?position=2&listName=ProductDetailsCrossSellComponent">Gucci</a>)- to fit your phone and your debit card and off you go to brunch...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Olympus E-PL8 (<a href="https://www.camera.ie/products/olympus-e-pl8">Camera.ie</a>)- the Pen's have a good reputation of taking decent still shots while also filming.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This Works Sleep Plus spray (<a href="http://www.lookfantastic.com/this-works-sleep-plus-pillow-spray-75ml/10990060.html">Look Fantastic</a>)- I've used this product before and it's amazing! Highly recommended.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Terrys Orange (<a href="https://www.tesco.ie/groceries/Product/Details/?id=287853023">Tesco</a>)- Because it's Christmas right?!</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-15884619772570395302016-11-25T20:50:00.000+00:002016-11-25T21:49:50.147+00:00Visit Iceland<br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This was a trip of a lifetime. Ev turned 30 in May and I booked an action packed five night adventure into the land for fire and ice for his present. Much planning was done online, researching different tour companies and trying to negotiate our time frame as best as we could.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I highly recommend Iceland and it should belong on everyone's travel bucket list. It's truly a holiday like no other. This post will show you who we booked with and why, recommendations of places to eat and stay and give you an idea of what to pack and costs involved. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">In all honestly, this post is going to be a little bias and super positive simply because we got engaged on this trip lol- I spent most of the holiday beaming ...so really, I will always hold a soft spot for this tiny country. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Ev actually did a two part vlog of our trip away which includes our engagement, us eating fermented shark + even our crash on our snowmobile lol! So, if your more into a visual element, please see our latest vlog;</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Part 1- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EnokGli8pU">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EnokGli8pU</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Part 2- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOH_lyj7Ed4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOH_lyj7Ed4</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Where we stayed?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Hotel Borg. An art deco 1920's established hotel is in a perfect location if visiting Reykjavik. It's located downtown of the city, overlooks the <span style="background-color: white;">Austurvöllur square and is a stone's throw to restaurants, bars and the harbour. Accommodation is very expensive in Iceland. In fact the running theme in this post will be that Iceland is very costly in general (especially for food!) so one of the reasons I actually chose </span>this hotel was based on the decent breakfast reviews and the heated bathroom floors lol! Our room was a corner room which was reasonably large, a decent bathroom and really good heating (Iceland is cold and wet!). Our breakfast was plentiful- think buffet but with a good quality choice of everything you could want, and we took advantage, filling ourselves up each morning meaning we only had to get a small lunch during the day. We were gifted with access to the spa also, and a sauna and jacuzzi were a welcome site after a day of outdoor activities. Room service was decent- and dinner prices on the menu were actually cheaper then some of the places we went to eat in within the city. You can book a room <a href="http://www.keahotels.is/en/hotels/hotel-borg/">here</a>. Five nights for a superior room with breakfast was €1316.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Travel?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We flew with Wow Air. The Ryanair of Iceland. Flight time is less then two and a half hours. And they are probably a little bit stricter then Ryanair. Price wise- definitely not as cheap, but like I said previously nothing is low priced in Iceland. We booked a shared 20kg suitcase (you need bulky items for this trip- no holidays cover ups in this suitcase!)and had two carry ons. Travel from Keflavik airport was a coach bus- unless you rent a car or have arranged a private transfer, you have no other option. We bought a return ticket on our flight and it cost €70 each. The journey from the airport was just under 1 hour, and includes a transfer from the bus terminal in a smaller bus to our hotel. All the trips/excursions we booked had pick-ups included in the price. And we walked around the whole of Reykjavik. So we had no other experience with travel within Iceland. Should we ever go back (we so want to explore the south of Iceland!)- we would probably rent a 4x4 car during a warmer time of the year and venture into the rural roads.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I spent a lot of time researching what I wanted to do in Iceland. Exploring for Northern lights and visiting a glacier was on the list. This is where you have an opportunity to play around with your budget. You can book tours for a variety of prices, it just depends on what your looking for. There are super cheap tours on Greyline.com, but this was a special trip and I wanted some of the more private options that were available. I booked;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Northern Lights of the beaten track (<a href="http://www.icelandexpeditions.is/northernlights.html">Iceland Expeditions</a>). A semi private expedition, pick up is in a spacious, rural road worthy Land Rover Discovery and we hunted for a few hours for lights outside Reykjavik. Our guide was actually the owner of the company- Dofri and he was fantastic. He was so knowledgeable and has a brilliant sense of humour. Our jeep also hosted a couple from HK and a lovely lady from the UK, who told us that she had previously taken a coach trip to see the Northern Lights but that it pulled into a parking lot and they waited their for a few hours. Dofri went in the search the best he could and to areas that would never have been possible in a large bus. It wasn't clearest of nights- but we did get glimpse and a lovely blurry photo that we will treasure! We had actually booked the Sunday night, however the weather was poor and the trip was cancelled, so we booked for Monday night instead which was perfect anyway as Ev asked me to marry him on Sunday night and would have probably spent the night sobbing with happiness and staring at my ring lol! Wrap up, be prepared with a very good camera and be welcomed by some yummy hot chocolate and a drop of rum for the rebels.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Lava tube caving (<a href="http://www.icelandexpeditions.is/caving.html">Iceland Expeditions</a>). We went with the same company for the Lava tube caving which covered the Leiðarendi cave- a 2000 year old cave that showed incredible rock formations. It was somewhat an active trip in that you need to bend and lunge to get through tight areas of the cave but when you deal with the idea that hot lava flowed right through that cave- the feeling is so exhilarating. Our leader- Erik was super engaging and a great teacher. I've never been into Geography, but this was an educational trip done really well. Waterproof gear is needed- droplets happen throughout the cave and you need to be covered. Our walk from our jeep to the caves was also drench inducing- so just be prepared.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Blue Lagoon (<a href="http://www.bluelagoon.com/blue-lagoon-spa/prices-and-packages/">Blue Lagoon.com</a>). It's one the best experiences we have ever experienced. A geothermal public bath that has sulphur based water between 37-39 degrees. The lagoon is huge and you can swim all around. We chose the premium option at €70 each which included a robe, slippers and the first drink for free (they actually limit the amount you can drink which maybe was a good thing as you could probably stay in the water and swim up to the bar the whole day!). Though there are cheaper options too and even more expensive option which included a private section. What an experience. Book your bus tickets through the site too- they are cheaper to do so! And pack your hair with the conditioner they provide as the sulphur will dry out your hair. You have to pre-book and we went for 12pm opening and stayed for hours floating in the bliss. I only wish we had a volcano in Ireland as I could do this every week!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Snowmobiling on the <span style="background-color: #fefefe;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: #fefefe; font-family: "\22 courier new\22 " , "\22 courier\22 " , monospace;">Langjökull </span><span style="font-family: "\22 courier new\22 " , "\22 courier\22 " , monospace;">glacier</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> and the Golden Circle Tour (<a href="http://snowmobile.is/tours/golden-circle-snowmobile/">Snowmobiling.is</a>). I wanted to book snowmobiling but also wanted to book the Golden Circle tour and this tour company operated a two in one. We got picked up in the Monster Truck- but happened to be the only passengers for the tour which was fantastic as it mean't we got a one to one trip. Our leader Mardis was amazing- knowledgeable and friendly, and so much fun. She brought us around the Golden Circle loop- we stopped at the Gullfoss waterfall and viewed the tetonic plates at Thingvellir National Park. We visited the Geysir and all the mini ones around it and went climbing up the mountain next to it. We later took the super truck out to the snowmobiling base and then went on an hour snowmobile ride on the </span><span style="background-color: #fefefe; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Langjökull </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">glacier. This is probably the most adventurous I have ever been and was definitely the highlight of our trip- the snowmobiling was so much fun (including the mini crash which you can see in our vlog lol!). Being on a glacier is surreal and if it's in your budget I would totally go for it! When do you ever get to do something like this?!Pricing was 45,900 ISK per person.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">If your staying in the city, there is actually loads to do, see and visit. We took one full day to walk around the city- see the artwork and capture some of the sights. Iceland is tiny with a population of 300,000 and yet 2/3 of the population live in Reykjavik. Think cute little streets, corrugated iron houses and big jeeps lining the roads.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We ate at the </span><a href="http://hornid.is/" style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">Hornid</a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> (Italian food)- yummy pizzas and pastas, </span><a href="http://www.saegreifinn.is/en/" style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">Saegrifinn</a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> (Seafood)- lobster soups and scallop skewers, </span><a href="http://apotekrestaurant.is/?lang=en" style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">Apotek </a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(mixed gastro menu)- by far the best restaurant we ate in and it wasn't the most expensive either (their lunch menu is very reasonable...for Iceland!)- the mink whale was so good, we had it twice in one day! </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/kaffi.loki/" style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">Cafe Loki</a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> (traditional Icelandic food)- we had </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">fermented shark...hey when in Iceland right?! And had ice-cream at </span></span><span style="color: black; cursor: pointer; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a aria-controls="js_1q3" aria-describedby="js_1q4" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=148954348604796" href="https://www.facebook.com/Valdisehf/" id="js_1q5" role="null" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;">Ísbúðin Valdís</a>- try the peanut butter oreo flavour!</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; cursor: pointer; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="color: black; cursor: pointer; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We also visited the </span><span style="color: black; cursor: pointer; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral which is simply stunning- concrete and vast but so beautiful. Walked around the harbour, visited the stunning Harpa building and searched for wall artwork high and low.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Reykjavik and Iceland is by far the most expensive place/country I have ever been to...it surpasses uber expensive Paris and trendy Dubai. A meal for two- two mains and two drinks (no starters or desserts) would set you back around 65 euro. Which personally I think is very expensive for sub-standard food. But your dealing with a country which has to import everything in. A bottle of water would set you back around 3-4 euro (tap water is the purest you will ever find so bring a reusable bottle with you!) and I can't comment on the shopping as we didn't set foot into a shop! If you budget well, and plan your trips accordingly it could be done much cheaper, however this was a birthday trip for Ev and I wanted the experience to be more personal and memorable!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We visited Iceland in late Oct/early Nov so it wasn't actually the coldest time of the year yet, but good thermals, waterproof gear and layers are a necessity. I bought the comfiest pair of Sorels that I lived in for the entire time I was there and they were waterproof but fashionable at the same time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">These are my must have items if visiting Iceland during the Winter season;</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- my Sorel's- the pair I chose was the Cozy Carnival boot (<a href="http://www.sorelfootwear.co.uk/womens-cozy-carnival-boot-1689721.html?cgid=women-boots&dwvar_1689721_variationColor=010#start=20">sorel.com</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- I lived in my thermals and got these from Amazon (<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0064OAY0M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- I wore a base layer (by Mountain Warehouse) top under all my jumpers each day <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B013VCS97E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">(Amazon</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Smartwool socks- my feet were toastie (<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000SLUBO6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon)</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- UA beanie (<a href="http://www.underarmour.eu/en-ie/girls-ua-shimmer-pom-beanie/1281867.html">Under Armour</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- UA Storm ColdGear Elements Glove (<a href="http://www.underarmour.eu/en-ie/mens-ua-storm-coldgear-infrared-elements-gloves/1282767.html">Under Armour</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- ...and don't forget your swimming togs!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-73874484533132420382016-09-22T01:25:00.001+01:002016-09-22T01:31:21.757+01:005 things we waste our money on...<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Ok- so it's quite apparent since my last post and my current Mortgage Diaries coverage on Twitter (follow me @ yasmina aniss) that I'm quite budget focused at the moment. Hey healthy obsession right?! And well I was looking at how fricken empty my purse was yet all I seem to be doing is working! It's the little things that eat away all your hard earned dosh and here are mine:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>1. Food shopping.</b> Ok I know we have to eat to survive. I always buy treats when I feel like I deserve it- and I could persuade myself that I deserve treats daily- lol! Everyone impulse buys and the amount of wastage that's committed is frankly quite disgusting. I try to make myself feel better by being an avid compost engager, but who are we kidding. We always put too much in our basket. We always order too much at the table, and most of us (go away health freaks!) definitely over consume in calories daily. It should be all about food prep and negotiating and getting rid of that idea that we deserve to fill the trolley up with 1/5 of treats (crisps, popcorn, biscuits, chocolate, wine, beer etc!) especially if we have had a bad day. We all do it and it's just emptying out pockets...most lunches cost around the seven euro mark (sambo/crisps/drink) and if you spend that 5 days a week and 48 weeks of the year- your looking at least €1600. The last time I checked that's a Celine phantom?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>2. Bottled water.</b> It's only when I am emptying my car, that I do a head tilt, total up in my head what I have spent on water bottles that month and go...crap! I have even bought re-usable bottles in the past- BPA free of course! But I have lost lids, they have shattered, I didn't bother buying a new filter...blah blah blah. I might let's say buy three bottles a week- 1 litre ones, I also (naughtily!) maybe use the same bottle for a day or two. Most bottles are around the €1.50 mark, thats €4.50 a week and a whopper €234 a year, which ok...isn't huge. But over a year, it could be 3 <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Aladdin-Aveo-Water-Bottle-Grey/dp/B003HGGOEK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1474455392&sr=8-3&keywords=water+bottles">Aveo</a> water bottle (reviews of this non-leaking bottle are brilliant!) and over two hundread squid to spend on a facial or two.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>3. Pennys.</b> I think writing this means that any chance of ever having a collab with Primark/Pennys will indefinitely be thrown out the window lol- but seriously! What's with the Pennys effect? You pop in to get ankle socks and you can come out with another set of fleecy pjs, boob tape, make-up remover and a new make-up bag. Sure it's only a few euro right?! I love the shop for seriously providing value for money products, but it's never good going. Same can be said for my Aldi/Lidl shop- new containers, himalayan salt and a spice blender have graced my basket recently. Lesson learned- leave the visa debit at home and only bring the cash that you ACTUALLY need.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>4. Coffees.</b> I love caffeine and I am actually quite good in that I may only ever have one coffee a day. I generally drink a lot of green tea (I bulk bought this fantastic bundle deal from Amazon <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Clipper-Fairtrade-Organic-Green-Teabags/dp/B00V6HBUAK/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1474456362&sr=8-1&keywords=clipper%2Bgreen%2Btea&th=1">here</a>). Two cups in the morning and one in the evening. But coffee tends to be bought out and is usually consumed when I have a big drive to classes across the country. Coffee prices keep creeping up...and while I have my favourite places to have a sip of a brew and people watch on a Sunday (Kaph, Slice and 3FE are my favourite places in Dublin!), most of the coffee I buy in petrol stations is absolute mush, yet I still drink it all while my euro's are disappearing! Four take-away coffees a week in petrol stations (that being the cheapest place to get a coffee- I still see so many places charging over three euro for a cap!) is over four hundred euro a year- which is a pair of <a href="https://www.gucci.com/ie/en_gb/pr/women/womens-shoes/womens-moccasins-loafers/princetown-leather-slipper-p-423513BLM001000?position=15&listName=ProductGridComponent&categoryPath=Women/Womens-Shoes/Womens-Slides-Mules">these</a> Gucci Princetown leather slippers that I have been eyeing up for ages.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>5. Subscriptions.</b> Netflix. Amazon Prime, Look fantastic beauty box. Spotify. Glamour magazine. All really un-necessary expenditures but so necessary at the same time. Every little subscription adds up and when you see whats debiting out of the account every month...it's scary stuff. When I did my accounts this year- I think I totalled it up to night in the Marker (<a href="http://m.themarkerhoteldublin.com/">this</a> hotel is my fave place to stay in Dublin) and a very very fancy meal...Boo you debit card! I'm down to just my Netflix (can I just leave this at NARCOS?!) and have phased out my beauty subscription. Real Adult stuff going on here. Tear drops.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What do you waste your dollar dollar bills on? </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-13817619616304421702016-09-10T20:20:00.000+01:002016-09-11T17:07:16.603+01:0010 things I would tell myself 10 years ago...<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'm in the process of making big A.D.U.L.T decisions. I write that in caps and with singular letters because that it literally how detailed investing in your future is. I'm hitting 28 in a few months and I really feel like my 20's have flashed past my eyes and I have this gnawing feeling of just not wanting to grow up quite yet. Is it the fear? God I have no idea. I don't really get the fear. I just worry that I have not made enough mistakes or been ballsy enough. I don't mind regrets. I feel like they are life lessons, but if I was 18 again, there are a few things I would like to tell myself in advance. Maybe my life would have panned totally different. Maybe not...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">1. Start a savings account. Way sooner. Even if it's €20 a month in a deposit account. Make it an automatic debit transaction (I always find you brush of physically having to deposit money!). It's a healthy habit, and one that you'll appreciate in years to come...! If I had realised how difficult it would be in my late 20's as a self-employed woman to get mortgage approval- I am not sure I would have gone down the path that I have. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">2. Say no! I've always said yes. Since day 1. Yes to extra work. Yes to more responsibilities. Yes to anything anyone has ever asked me to do. It's ok to say no (add a little thank-you!). And no, your not being selfish!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">3. Regularly re-evaluate your vision board. I've always associated a vision board with something that you might do in a group work in school/college- however I have found mine (only done one in Jan 2016!) super motivating when I take the time to look at it (place it somewhere you will always see it!). I'd have loved to have done one of these years ago. I might have thrown down things in my late teens that I would never dare write down now. We are more naive when we are younger and there is nothing wrong with that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">4. Don't buy so many shoes. God I bought so many shoes. SOOO many shoes. I could have had my own shoe shop. Be realistic. Fashion constantly changes. Buy a few staples and 2-3 fashion pieces that you can rotate. My bank manager has warned me about my purchasing patterns. I am now paying the price for having a colourful wardrobe...Boo!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">5. Keep in touch. Social media doesn't actually count! When I turned 18, I started dance college and most of my school friends went on to do various things and then a good lot moved abroad. I got so caught up with my training and travelling, I didn't go out as much and lost a huge amount of contact with the company of people I really enjoyed. It's so much harder when you get older to make friends. The awkwardness. Our busy lives. We always say in passing that we should meet up and we never do...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">6. Avoid M & S like the plague. It's made me develop a very unhealthy relationship in justifying spending hard end money on items like mojito flavoured popcorn and mixed seafood risotto. I think if I didn't have such a fruitful palette from a young age, I'd be a lot richer and probably a size 8!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">7. Have my eyebrows threaded and tinted from a pro. Religiously. What was I thinking going around with upside-down Nike ticks above my eye I'll never know. I shudder when I see photos of me from the past...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">8. Breathe more and learn to relax. Any body that really knows me will know that I am the most tense, up tight, obsessive, over-thinking headless chicken. I'm a busy fool. And it's not healthy. I've been like this for at least the last 10 years. Had I spent time in my late teens pausing and breathing, I'd probably be more rational and calmer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">9. Work abroad before opening up a business. I love going abroad and I wish I hadn't rushed into opening my schools so soon. I'm limited that anything international now is purely as a holiday...I wish someone had said hold off on opening up your school and go work somewhere for a year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">10. Start a coding course. Because let's face it...it's all the tech geeks out there that have really been the most successful!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-4144733869370955472016-07-17T00:51:00.000+01:002016-07-17T12:35:50.249+01:00Side notes, Taste in Dublin + Balfes and Dilllingers...<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>*Side note* </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's been a while right since I have blogged....and I did think I was going to do more writing once my teaching work died down, but I think I have just been enjoying my time off. Doing absolutely nothing. Serious slothness. But again my laziness didn't last for long, as I usually get itchy feet and urge to do something with my 'me' time (we have a love/hate relationship!- I love the idea of relaxing but then feel totally guilty when I engage in it!), and was blessed with four weeks of camps that will keep me going till my Summer holidays in Morocco in August. Yippee!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Myself and Ev did a whole vlog of our weekend- so if your more of a visual person then see our youtube video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7t9yqgw7eQ"><b>here</b></a> (click please!). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Taste of Dublin (located in the Iveagh Gardens- see <a href="http://dublin.tastefestivals.com/plan-your-day/">here</a>)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What a load of horse sh***e! I've been wanting to do it for years- it was my idea of heaven. Trying out tapas style meals from places all around Dublin in one venue. Drool! We received complimentary tickets (I think the value of them was €15!) so saw this as a saving and it meant more money towards buying food.... but the weekend's weather (it's currently Summer in Ireland!) was possibly the worst it could be for an outdoor venue situation- and this definitely affected the experience. We were advised to buy florins (a booklet of tickets that you exchange for food at each vendor so there is a cashless environment!). We bought a booklet worth €50. An amount we would usually spend on a brunch sitting. Excuse my french- but we literally pissed through the booklet, I was still starving and that was without having drinks. And I wanted alcohol. We spent another €20 on three drinks with about €3 left over and you couldn't really buy much for €3. Most of the vendor stalls we had tried were places we had yet to go to eat in Dublin- Pichet, Klaw, Amuse to name a few...and we were so excited about the idea of a new place- but what they served didn't necessarily entice me to go book a meal there. Wouldn't that be the whole purpose? There was a lot of dishes that were served purely for convenience- I swear i'd seen brisket about five times over! Boo! </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The concept is a great idea- but it just cements rip off Ireland and it could be so much more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Balfes (located just off Grafton Street- see <a href="http://balfes.ie/">here</a>)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Balfes actually happened on the same day as Taste in Dublin...purely because we were still so hungry and I was dying to try out the Instagram-worthy eatery I heard so much about. Balfes is located just under the Westbury. Think marble tables, chic Parisienne style outdoor tables and a simple (and health conscious too!) menu. We had oysters on the brain, so went for a plate of Carlingford Oysters, the Tuna Tartare and bread basket with dips. Desserts were a parmesan and fig cheesecake (yes you read that right and it was so good!) and a pepper grilled pineapple with vanilla ice-cream. Now that's food. And good food too! We will be back. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Dillingers (located on the main street in Ranelagh- see <a href="http://www.dillingers.ie/">here</a>) </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's become a tradition within my family that we all go out once my stage schools conclude. I decided to try Dillingers. It was my first time going- well it actually should have been my second (I won their #Brunchtastic competition which was a free meal including drinks for two- but was busy so I gave it to my parents instead and they didn't stop raving about it...kudos to a brilliant twitter competition!). The food and drinks were amazing- we went for steak and eggs, the nachos, the Scandinavian, the chicken and waffles, a cheeseburger and brioche soft roll filled with Shrimp. All mains came with a generous side of fries, potatoes or greens. The drinks were good and strong too- check out the breakfast stick on the Bloody Mary. We shared dessert amongst the seven of us- creme brulee with clementines, a chocolate mousse with almond ice cream and a baked New York cheesecake. Special highlights were the steak (smokey and juicy!), my Mimosa (I love bubbles obviously!), the Nachos and the chocolate mousse. If I was to be a bit picky, I'd stay away from the chicken + waffles- the southern fried chicken was quite dry- purely because I think they chose fillet pieces as oppose to a piece on a bone (maybe to cater for the majority of people, I'm not too sure!). We will be back- if not for their brunch, then for their steak Wednesday's which sound super. Ps- Ranelagh is one of my favourite places in Dublin- maybe because my mum's childhood home is there, or I love...ok, dream about owning a terrace house there one day!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-64159408553386948522016-06-08T00:47:00.000+01:002016-06-08T01:25:47.592+01:0024 in Dublin: Union 8, 50 Shades of Gay and Slice<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Yesterday was my first day off in a while, because of my job in the arts- this time of the year tends to be quite hectic until the the lazy Summer hits. I like to plan something on my day off otherwise I'll end up procrastinating and wasting the day away on meaningless activities. One of my good friends from the arts world had landed a solo gig and dying to see him in it, I booked 2 tickets to see him perform in the Smock Alley Theatre. Sticking to our plan of eating our way around Dublin- we booked Union 8, in Kilmainham for pre-theatre dinner and planned brunch for the following day in a little restaurant- Slice in Stoneybatter, that we had walked past a few weeks ago and that was buzzing and we were dying to try.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Union8- <a href="http://www.union8.ie/">http://www.union8.ie</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Union 8- self-labled as your neighbourhood eatery has been busy every time we passed it. Ev had heard great things about it, but we always booked something else in the past and so only got round to trying it out on the Monday. It was 5.30 on a bank holiday so we were offered the Early Bird Menu @ €23.50 for two course + tea/coffee. I went for the Seared scallops with Mc Carthy’s black pudding, Spring onion, Ponzu and Chicory for my starters and the special of Pan fried hake on a bed of tomatoes and squid. And Ev went for <span style="font-size: 16px;">Wild garlic and nettle soup with Créme fraiche and Nduja</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> and for mains went for the </span></span><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Roast Duck breast, Blood orange, Potato rosti, Carrot and anise. To drink I chose a Passion fruit Margarita and Ev went for a Coconut Mojito. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">To be blunt- it was poor and we expected so much more. I don't know if we expected more because of the reviews, because it always looked busy or because we liked the idea of having a restaurant a stone's throw away from Ev's childhood neighbourhood. But it was so poor. Drinks were good, and so were my scallops. But everything else was just very mediocre. The soup had a domineering pea smell from it- even though peas weren't advertised in the title. My hake (which is a fish that I love!!!) was overcooked and also burnt on the outside and the bed of tomatoes ended up being a tomato cut in half with a few lack lustre pieces of squid. Nothing that made it a special. Ev's duck was cooked well- except that it was luke warm and the rosti seemed to miss seasoning. Don't get me started on the half piece of carrot on the plate. This wasn't a tasting menu, so don't serve food that way. 23.50 is fine for a two course, but our waiter seemed brand new, didn't know the menu and we waited 20 minutes for our drinks to come out. I hate not giving something another try but but I really don't think I would visit Union8 again. The brunch I'd try- but other restaurants nearby offer a far more attractive meal. Highly disappointed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">50 Shades of Gay- on at the <a href="http://smockalley.com/69-shades-gay/">Smock Alley Theatre</a> till Saturday 11th June</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This is not a bias review simply because I know Rob Murphy personally. I've seen other friends in performances before and not necessarily blogged about it. I'm more writing a review because it actually far exceeded my expectations. It's a fantastic bit of theatre that everyone can relate too- gay or not! When I told Rob last week that I'd bought tickets for me and Ev- he rather politely went crazy and suggested that I should be going with a group of girls or some gay friends. Utter nonsense. While it is a rather overly stereotyped play on a gay men and his sexual conquests- Aiden (played by Rob Murphy) speaks about some of his 69 past boyfriends and we can't help but grasp on to a few familiar situations and just as we start to well up and reminisce, Aidan snaps us back to laughter with references on grocery items that will never set foot in my trolley again; sweetcorn and jelly tots are over for me!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The Smock Alley is a fantastically intimate theatre, just rather disappointingly, ticket sales were quiet (hey it was a bank holiday Monday and a lot of people had work the next day!) and I knew that it mean't Rob had to work ten times harder to get any audience interaction. So on that alone- I was blown away. His effort and passion for performing in a one-man show was brave and inspiring and I highly recommend you visit this week before the run ends this Saturday. Hey, the weather is so beautiful in Ireland at the moment, it's perfectly acceptable to go for a drink or dinner, take a walk up the quays and stop for a bit of theater- c'est la vie non?! Tickets can be booked <a href="http://smockalley.com/69-shades-gay/">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Slice- <a href="http://www.asliceofcake.ie/">http://www.asliceofcake.ie</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Tuesday's brunch was at Slice. I walked past it a few weeks back and it looked charming. There was people sitting on the makeshift bench, it's located in the uber cool Stoneybatter area and I made mental note to come back and try it out in the future. We arrived around 11.30, so breakfast was still being served. And the lunch menu started at 12 which suited me fine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I went for the scrambled eggs on sourdough with avocado and chorizo and Ev went for the home made beans and sausages on Sourdough with Gubbeen cheese. He went for one of their teas, I went for their juice of the day- watermelon and apple and we got two coconut milk cappuccinos and a slice of coconut cake that was filled with the oozing jam. As far as breakfast goes- mine was lovely- decent portions, but most importantly good tastes. Loads of coriander + meaty chorizo in mine and simple homemade beans in Ev's were the highlights. And we really enjoyed the bread. I loved the juice so much- we stopped of in the supermarket on the way home and bought watermelon to use in Ev's juicer. And my coffee was good. Like real good. Cappuccinos made with coconut and almond milk are my new go too's. I'm really obsessed with them. I got chatting to who I think was the owner- and just the overall vibe of the place was my cup of tea. Me and Ev love Stoneybatter- just one of the terrace houses from the mortgage gods down the road and I'd be sorted. Hey...one can dream right!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-72864191822098068982016-05-11T21:27:00.000+01:002016-05-11T21:27:35.791+01:00VISITING NEW YORK; Where we stayed, Eating in NYC, Things to do and my Top Tips<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Part 3 of my Visiting New York post is Things to do and my Top Tips. If you have some tips of your own that aren't here, pop them on the comments page- hey, sharing is caring...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Things to do;</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-Highline (free)- this was my Little Sister's suggestion, and what a fantastic place for being snap happy. The highline is an old railway line that has been refurbished into a safe walkway (totally kid friendly too- there is things for little ones to do whilst taking the route!) and you have several exits on the way where you can pop into neighbouring areas for a bite!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">- <a href="https://oneworldobservatory.com/">One World Observatory</a> (around $30 admission but they do family deals too!)- While my myself and my Mum visited the 9/11 memorial site + museum, my sister Grace and my Dad visited the world observatory. I was pretty jealous when she came back with these photos....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">- Street art- your spoiled for choice in New York with some of the most creative and interesting pieces around the city. Street art fanatics would have a field day- and I say you could base your entire stay around certain tags around the city. We just got snap happy when there was something we liked...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-2 day ticket for the Hop On Hop Off bus tour ($55)- I totally recommend it, it was the best way to get all the hotspots over and done with in one day. Tour guides obviously vary- the chap + lady we had on the first day was brilliant, super cool and gave you a heap of knowledge. The next days tour guide wasn't so much into it...but hey it's hit and miss! We got off at the main attractions- Grand Central station, Times Square, all the bridges linking to Manhattan, Fifth Avenue, Central Park etc in New York on each route and hopped back on when we were tired from walking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-Broadway show (price range from anything like $40-$200+). We chose premium seats to see Matilda, but even at $135 each, we were three rows from the stage! The cast came up all around our seats and there was a really cool stunt scene with 'Lavender' literally a breathe away from me that I am still trying to work out. We spent the next few days belting our 'Revolting Children'...But if Matilda is not your cup of tea- there are soooo many Broadway shows, dance performances, operas, jazz shows etc...it really is a city of performance and your spoilt for choice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Central Park (free) We spent half a day strolling around the park. Blessed with such good weather, we were able to take in several of the street performers and have a mooch around a quarter of the park. Plan your trip there, there are so many entrances and scenic spots from movies/tv shows that you will want to see so plan plan plan. If I was back in the late spring/summer, I'd take a boat trip and pack a picnic! Also make sure to check out the loos (we had such much fun in them lol!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-MOMA- an absolutely un-real museum with pieces I only dreamed of seeing. Some of my favourites were pieces by Andy Warhol, Helen Frankenthaler, Chagall, Umberto Boccioni, Picasso, Roy Litchenstein and Jackson Pollock. An adult ticket with MOMA costs $23 but you could easily spend the whole day there. I only managed to get through 2.5 floors and definitely missed out on some work that I regret. Download the app (they have free wifi in the museum and avail of the audio options!). The museum, the pieces and the supporting material are so educating- I felt like I was back taking an art history lesson!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-Brooklyn- we actually used one of the tour buses to take a trip to Brooklyn and I wanted to see how the neighbourhood varies from the concrete jungle of Manhattan. It does and it's still quite cool looking. Cue 'Jigga what...Jigga who' through the whole trip there! My parents previously took in a game in the Barclays Centre and they highly recommended it. Tickets were pricey- but it was a derby- Nets v Knicks and they said the atmosphere was priceless. For my trip- it was either a musical or a sports game. And I went for the musical.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- 9/11 Memorial site- We visited the memorial site and museum on our last day in New York. It was right in front of our Hotel so we didn't have far to travel, but queuing happens from early on, so get there first if you don't want to be waiting. Strict security measures in place, so be sensible too! The museum itself is tastefully done- we all remember where we were the day the 9/11 terrorist attacks happened, I was in London on my way to a ballet class, when my friend shouted from her flat for us to run up and look at the news. We stood transfixed on the terrifying images that flood the screens. The museum paints a picture of being there in that moment. The lives that changed. The lives lost. I highly recommend the site- even just for reflection.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- What I would like to do should I get the opportunity to visit New York again- Metropolitan Museum of Art (<a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/current-exhibitions">met museum!</a>), take in a game/concert at either Madison Square Garden or the Barclays Centre and Brunch on one of the rooftops during the Summer- our hotel rooftop only opened up in the warm season- but check out the Loopy Doopy rooftop bar and it's insane cocktail menu <a href="http://www.conradnewyork.com/dine/loopy-doopy-rooftop-bar/">here</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Top Tips;</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Comfortable shoes- I'm a trainers type of lady anyway, but my Air Max Flyknits were my saviour. You want to look stylish but also be able to belt down the subway stairs...If AM's aren't your cup of tea; <a href="http://www.asos.com/nike/nike-plum-fog-air-pegasus-'83-trainers/prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5784395&clr=Plumfog&SearchQuery=nike&pgesize=36&pge=0&totalstyles=188&gridsize=3&gridrow=9&gridcolumn=1">these</a> Nikes, <a href="https://www.size.co.uk/product/reebok-x-face-stockholm-classic-leather-spirit-womens/057354/">these</a> Reeboks or <a href="http://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/5,20/2378223014">these</a> Adidas bad boys will always pair well with your exploring outfit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Subway pass is $32 for a 7 day pass- it's the cheapest city I have been to for a while with regards to public transport. Working out at just over $4 a day for unlimited metro travel- it's by far cheaper then travelling in London (which I have found to be way too expensive now!) and the subway system is so simple to use. It would be nearly impossible to get lost!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Walk! The layout of Manhattan all together is so well designed, streets are perpendicular to avenues, and we saved so many locations on google maps so that it was simply easy to get from place to place by foot! If you are a geographical nightmare though- so many subway stations have wifi hotspots, so simply nip down, load your maps feed and then set back on foot again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Haggle for tour buses- we got ours cheaper then advertised. What's the worst that could happen? They just say no!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Plan. Plan and Plan. Everyone I have talked to about New York says it! You can get lost in the all hype and spend your entire time walking around places like the M and M factory in Times Square- which might be appealing to some people but isn't really my cup of tea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>- Research;</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Research your shopping- The exchange rate is so poor at the minute for the dollar that you don't necessarily save big. I instead bought items I couldn't get back at home (my April bill from Sephora was not pleasant!) or that were cheaper- I teach 6/7 days a week so bought new work gear from Nike that costs me a fortune back home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Research your eating places- if your a fussy eater and fast food is your cup of tea your fine- NYC is full of junk food! But if not, and you like expanding the palette- research Yelp reviews, ask friends who have similar tastes and experiment. It's such an international city!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Research you sightseeing places- we tried to match our sightseeing places with where we were going to eat- sort of like killing two birds with one stone. Ok, so I know people will be like hey your on a holiday, so quit planning and go with the flow, and sometimes that happened- we stumbled upon streets we liked and places that looked interesting and got off stops earlier then we were supposed to but New York has so much to do, and it's not cheap to fly to or stay at. It's certainly not a 48hr trip to a European city with Ryanair so the way I see it- you want to make the most of every part of it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Take some 'me' time. Every day spent in New York, we would give an hour or so to chill back in the hotel rom before changing and getting ready for dinner that night. Whether it was having a Nespresso and something sweet you had picked up that day, or sprawling on the bed and reading- 'Me' time abroad is so important for you mentally and also who is travelling with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">What would you </span><span style="font-family: "courier new", "courier", monospace;">recommend</span><span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;"> to do in New York? What are your top tips?</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-30958187683432921982016-04-04T20:49:00.001+01:002016-04-04T20:49:03.716+01:00Visiting New York Part 2: Eating in NYC<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Part 2</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's quite clear from my past posts, that food is a major feature of my day- my families stance on the subject is even greater. With Dad being a chef in the past, no lie, our entire itinerary was planned around food- we had two planned places each day and made it our business to plan things to do around these joints. Some were recommendations from friends, some were places my parents had already been to in their last trip and some were brand new places we had read about- apart from Street food- Food and Drink and tipping service is a lot more expensive in New York. Some of our meals varied from as little as $50 for six people to $500+ for a boozy night. It totally depends on what you are in to, but as advised, we did our research and planned ahead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Tuesday's Eats:</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Landed in New York at around 7pm, so that was 11pm Irish time, not hugely late, but by the time we got into the city and checked in- all we wanted was something quick. Because of the location of our hotel we are spoilt for food- there was a <b>Shake Shack</b>, no lie- 50 meters from our hotel. So good. Milkshakes were delicious and it definitely lived up to its hype. I just wish I could have fitted in two visits (though my waistline is entirely grateful I didn't!)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-We had a <a href="http://www.wholefoods.com/"><b>Whole Foods</b></a> right next to our hotel- a sort of upmarket supermarket selling organic and nearly every dietary friendly item conceivable! Whole foods was where we got breakfast every morning- fresh cold pressed juices, the most insane bakery selection (breakfast pretzel or a banana and walnut muffin anyone?!) and a huge deli selection of cold and hot foods- breakfast was always under $10 each day (per person!) and the choice was limitless.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="text-align: center;">-Lunch was at the famous <a href="http://katzsdelicatessen.com/"><b>Katz's Delicatessen</b></a> (Lower East Side- 205 Houston(Lower East Side- <span style="color: #1f2526; letter-spacing: 0px;">205 East Houston Street, corner of Ludlow St, </span><span style="color: #1f2526; letter-spacing: 0px;">New York City, 10002)- Katz has featured on almost every food programme in New York, so while yes it was quite a </span></span><span style="color: #1f2526; text-align: center;">stereotypical tourist joint, I had never had a Pastrami sandwich before and was eager to try. Perfect for meat lovers. True New York experience, but be prepared with an empty </span><span style="color: #1f2526; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">stomach- the portions are huge and we had to cancel dinner plans that night and go for something smaller and low key because we were so full.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1f2526; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*Go for the classic Pastrami on Rye with a side of green tomatoes and pickles and load up on the mustard and wash it down with a can of soda.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #1f2526; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-Dinner plans were changed because Katz was so filling, so late that night, we took a five minute walk from the hotel to a <b>Chipotle</b>. Basic, fresh and non GMO (which is a big deal in America- because you never know what your food actually is!) mexican- and sooooo cheap.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #1f2526; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*Go for a salad/burrito bowl- with extra avocado and one of their house margarita's- our local Chipotle didn't skimp on the Tequila. Winning.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #1f2526; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Lunch was in Brooklyn and unintentionally planned- we spent so long walking around the little streets that we actually lost track of time- we did pure American food at <b>Buffalo Wild Wings</b>. Again an utterly cheap lunch meal and it ticked of American fast food of the list...however, there is no way I could possibly eat that type of food every day. I don't know how people do it. Don't get me wrong though, my wings were demolished. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #1f2526; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*Go for their lunch menu deal- I went for the classic buffalo wings with blue cheese, crudités and fries and pick the smallest size plate- because it is literally the size of your head.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Dinner was at the <a href="http://www.theboilny.com/"><b>The Boil</b></a> (Lower East Side- 139 Chrystie St, </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">between Broome St & Delancey St, </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">New York</span><span style="background-color: white;">,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span itemprop="addressRegion" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">NY</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span itemprop="postalCode" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">10002)- you CAN'T make reservations at the Boil and our waiting time for a table was for 1.5hours but I'd wait even longer for that food again- Absolutely unreal seafood, creole style served in giant bags- the whole family went for mixed dishes- but I have never had anything like this and only wished this was available in Dublin.</span></span></div>
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<span itemprop="postalCode" style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*Go for their combos, a little on the pricey side to most people for a main, but it's at least 2 pounds of shellfish. I went for the Crawfish and Shrimp combo and also try the Chili Margarita- they put fresh jalapeño's in the drink and mother divine they don't water down drinks at all. PS- If the queue is big for a table, put your name down and go for a drink at <b>One Mile House</b> (around the corner!).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-Because we visited Woodbury Common on Friday, lunch was in the food courts- the choice is immense. Anything you could want, they had. Again portions were ridiculous.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- <a href="http://nerainyc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/2015.11.30-Dinner.pdf"><b>Nerai</b></a> </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">55 East 54th Street, </span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">New York</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">, </span><span itemprop="addressRegion" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">NY</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span itemprop="postalCode" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">10022) </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">was Friday night's food. I went for dinner with a friend from Secondary School (thanks David Fitz!) on Friday night and he brought me to Nerai, a be</span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">autiful Greek seafood restaurant. We had Shrimp Loukoumades, Stuffed Calamari, Cretan spiced scallops and lemon potatoes. I also had the most delicious glasses of Malbec. Nerai is a higher end restaurant- and definitely one of the pricey meals during the week.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*Go for the stuffed Calamari. It was recommended in past reviews and it didn't disappoint. Dress wear is smart.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Drinks at <a href="http://beautyandessex.com/"><b>Beauty and Essex</b></a> (146, Essex street, NYC 10002); I later took a cab to meet one of my sisters and my parents at the hip Beauty and Essex. Recommended by the fabulous Dearbhla (from the <a href="http://www.belleazzure.com/">Belle </a><a href="http://www.belleazzure.com/">Azure blog</a>) who spent time living NYC and what a fabulous recommendation. Super funky, great music, I can't comment on the food because I didn't eat there, but my family loved it...and the drinks...don't get me started. The cocktail list was fab, but at $17 a pop, my poor dad (whose turn it was to pay the bill that night!) nearly had a heart attack lol!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- <a href="http://lukeslobster.com/"><b>Luke's Lobster</b></a> (</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Luke%E2%80%99s+Lobster+the+plaza&hl=en&ie=UTF8&sll=38.905779,-77.062182&sspn=0.005302,0.010922&t=h&hq=luke's+lobster&hnear=The+Plaza,+768+5th+Ave,+New+York,+10019&z=15&iwloc=A" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1459628715443_418" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">THE PLAZA FOOD HALL</a>, <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Luke%E2%80%99s+Lobster+the+plaza&hl=en&ie=UTF8&sll=38.905779,-77.062182&sspn=0.005302,0.010922&t=h&hq=luke's+lobster&hnear=The+Plaza,+768+5th+Ave,+New+York,+10019&z=15&iwloc=A" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1459628715443_418" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">1 W. 59th Street</a>, <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Luke%E2%80%99s+Lobster+the+plaza&hl=en&ie=UTF8&sll=38.905779,-77.062182&sspn=0.005302,0.010922&t=h&hq=luke's+lobster&hnear=The+Plaza,+768+5th+Ave,+New+York,+10019&z=15&iwloc=A" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1459628715443_418" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">New York, NY</a>) was Brunch for the day following time spent in Central Park. Luke's Lobster is a sustainable lobster shack/restaurant that offers the most insane Lobster maine sandwiches. They have several locations in New York- but because we were in Central Park, we popped into the Plaza Food Hall (sort of like the Harrods food hall except a lot smaller!) and had lunch. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">* Go for the Lobster Maine meal Combo- it comes with chips (crisps!) or pickles and a drink. And make sure you get the Ginger Beer- it's so spicy but nearly rivals the Old Jamaica Ginger Beer brand- and well that's a big deal for me to say!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Plaza Food Hall- being the fat mess that I am- cake was the option after Lunch and we went for three slices of yumminess! There are so many little stalls in the Plaza Food Hall- that during the summer, it would be amazing to take a picnic of little bits and bobs from the food hall!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- Dinner was skipped/stopped for bagels from a 24hr joint on the way home from seeing Matilda on Broadway (my thoughts up on that in the next post!)- though the bagels!!! Lashings of Cream cheese and crispy bacon- drool!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Sunday eats:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- <b><a href="http://thehalalguys.com/">The Halal Guys</a> </b>(<span style="background-color: white;"><span class="slp_result_address slp_result_street" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.31em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">West 53 ST. & 7 Ave</span> </span><span class="slp_result_address slp_result_citystatezip" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.31em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white;">New York, NY 10019</span><span style="background-color: white;">) </span></span>We were told to stop at the Halal guys...and boy was that a recommendation (thanks Orla. T!). I LOVE street food and these guys have a super reputation for being clean and serving good food. They have several locations around NY, and most of them are fixed. We visited them after spending the day at MOMA- totally recommended for a cheap meal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*I went for the Gyro bowl- full of beef, rice, spices, salad and a pitta and wash it down with a snapple- while sitting on the office steps of some skyscraper- tres New York right?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- <span style="color: black;"><b><a href="http://redroosterharlem.com/">Red Rooster</a> </b></span>in Harlem (310 Lennox Avenue, Harlem, NY 10027, Between 125th and 126th) was our soul food experience. I'm going to start of by saying the food was ok and fairly decent, but the service was absolutely appalling. We didn't have one complaint the whole holiday with service- Waiters really work for their tips (they have reduced wages lower then minimum wage, something like $4 dollars an hour- so service should and will always be top notch!)- but our lady was mean and rude. And I would suggest going to another local soul food place such as Sylvia's purely because of the service from our waitress. Also, the food wasn't hugely amazing, for 1 bottle of wine, 6 mains, 2 starters and 2 desserts, the bill was over $400, and I would have just expected way better. I was actually super disappointed because I really wanted a decent soul food experience- so should I be back to NYC- it'll be to this place instead- <a href="http://sylviasrestaurant.com/"><b>Sylvia's</b></a> (see link!).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">* Should you decide to go Red Rooster- out of all the dishes that we had I would recommend the Shrimp and Grits or the Fried Yardbird, or the Red Rooster doughnuts (filled with sweet potato cream).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- <b><a href="http://sarabethsrestaurants.com/tribeca/">Sarabeth's</a> </b>(</span><span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 1px; text-transform: uppercase; word-spacing: -1px;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">339 GREENWICH STREET, CORNER OF JAY STREET)</span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">for pancakes- Everybody recommended Sarabeth's for pancakes. I didn't want to go for the stodgy pancakes from a diner that stick to your pallet and these were the total opposite- fluffy and light and a stack of five. Oh-emm-gee! There are five Sarabeth's in NYC- we visited the one in Greenwich but that was because we could walk to there from our hotel. Some will be more busier then others, but totally recommend the one we went to as it was quiet and you can have a stroll also in chic Greenwich.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*Go for the lemon and ricotta pancake stack. Nom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- </span><span style="border: 0px; color: black; display: inline-block; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; text-overflow: ellipsis; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao</b> in Flushing, Queens (</span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span class="street-address" style="border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">38-12 Prince St, </span><span class="street-address" style="border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Flushing, NY 11354, </span><span class="street-address" style="border: 0px; color: #333333; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">United States)- yes we took the subway all the way to the last stop in Queens but for a good reason. Dumplings! Holy moses. So good. Our last meal in NYC, and I felt like I was back in Beijing. If you have a bit of time, stroll around the area too, it's like a second china town and the </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">visit then asian beauty + fashion shops- they have one of a kind items and totally worth rooting through.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*Go for the beef and spring onion pancakes, the steamed pork and crab meat dumplings and the crispy noodle seafood dish. Drooling. Again and again.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Tuesday eats:</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">- We had an early evening flight and loved Sarabeth's so much we went back for their Prix Fixe lunch menu. Totally recommended.</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What are your recommendations for New York? </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Stay tuned for Part three of my New York blog soon!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-38334672661457239072016-04-03T00:33:00.002+01:002016-04-03T14:48:28.964+01:00VISITING NEW YORK; Where we stayed, Eating in NYC, Things to do and my Top Tips<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So my latest trip took me to New York. My parents treated myself and all my sisters to a seven night trip to NYC (27 and being brought on a holiday- lucky me!), and we were super excited and nervous (6 of us for 24/7 non stop can be and was at time intense!!!) but it was also eight years since I had last been to New York and I was excited to try out the new spots and the ever changing vibe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Where do you begin? The location, the Food, the Drink, the Culture, the Activities...it's just one hub of a big buzz. Like little ants in a trance...the city truly </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">never</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> sleeps. Everyone works so hard to out do one another, but I love it and I love it's ambition. And I can't wait to be back, albeit after I have tackled a few other locations (I've made a mental note to really avoid visiting the same place too many times- the world is so big and time is so short to keep going to the same place!). But wow, thank you New York for re-lighting my spark to be aggressive and powerful.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I've decided to split my post in three sections: (1) An Intro and Where we stayed, (2) Eating in NYC and (3) Things to do and my Top Tips- hope you enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Where we stayed:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Seven nights were spent in <a href="http://www.conradnewyork.com/"><b>The Conrad New York</b></a> (<span itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="display: inline !important; line-height: 1.6em; position: relative; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: black;"><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="display: inline !important;">102 North End Avenue, </span></span></span><span itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="display: inline !important; line-height: 1.6em; position: relative;"><span style="color: black;"><span itemprop="postalCode" style="display: inline !important;">New York, NY 10282)- a luxury, suite based room (business) hotel based in Downtown Manhattan. The hotel is directly in front of the World Trade Centre and has full views of the Hudson River. Most people generally stay Uptown when visiting NYC, but because there were 6 travellers, we needed large rooms and the Conrad offers suite only style rooms- so there are seperate living rooms with each bedroom meaning there was always plenty of space and we were never on top of each other. Most of the hotels in NYC are tiny because Manhattan is so small, but we were 7 minutes on the subway from the Times Square stop so it wasn't as if we had ages to travel! In fact, most places other then visiting Flushing in Queens or Brooklyn took less than 20 minutes by subway- the metro system is sooooo cheap and reliable (more on that in part 3!).</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The rooms are beautiful with huge beds, ample wardrobe space, nespresso machine, super fast internet (free!) and great concierge service- the General manager was really discreet when I organised an Easter surprise for the family and I loved their attention to detail. If you can afford, splurge for a room with a Hudson river view- oooh la la!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The hotel also has a cinema attached, a rooftop bar (that unfortunately only operates during Spring/Summer schedule!) and a decent restaurant and bar. Drinks were a normal price for that type of hotel ($16 for a glass of cava and $17 for G + T's!). Because of where the hotel is located, the Financial District, you are spoilt for choice for eateries- but decent priced ones too. There is plenty of street food for office workers! It certainly wasn't tourist filled. In fact I loved the location so much because every morning when I nipped to Whole Foods for breakfast, I was walking with all the workers on the way to their offices- such a buzz and so fast paced and reminded me of living in London years ago.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*A little note for any Irish readers. Directly in front of the hotel (Hudson river side) there is a fantastic Irish Famine Memorial Site- they have a whole lot with grass from Ireland (yes- I said Grass from Ireland!). The Irish may have had a tough time in migration the last century- but New York does certainly recognise them as being a major population to shape the future of the city. Kudos.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Price wise of the hotel was very expensive. But you pay for what you get and in our case it was space and quietness. There are no honking horns or bars around and everything is fairly quiet but extremely safe (there are police everywhere because of the New World Trade Centre and I think some government buildings!)so being a solo women in the area would be totally fine. Highly recommended, and I'd love to be back, even just to see what the Rooftop bar (which stocks wine ice lollies- H-E-L-L-0!!!)looks like during the warmer weather.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Stay tuned for part 2 of my Visiting New York post which is all about my favourite thing in the world- FOOD! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Happy Sunday!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-31715626909913663212016-03-13T19:24:00.001+00:002016-03-13T19:27:45.214+00:00Dining in Malahide: Bon Appetit<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We heard a buzz about Bon Appetit a while back, and with Oliver Dunne's stance on effectively handing back his Michelin star, we were curious as to why someone would do this?! Was it the necessity to cater for it's Northside Dublin clientele? Was the pressure too hard? Or was Dunne not fussed about the hype that surrounds a star and his philosophy was to cook just good food? But the reviews after it's handing back continued to be positive and so we were eager to try it out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Bon Appetit is located in trendy Malahide, its a multiple storey restaurant that features a tapas bar, a brasserie- they also do Brunch, Lunch, Afternoon Tea and cooking lessons.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Maybe we chose the wrong option on the menu. I don't know. We went for the option titled 'Surprise Tasting menu'- and all we knew was that it was six courses long. As a fan of tasting menu's, I expect good cooking, exciting tastes and a flowing rhythm throughout the courses. The Amuse Bouche was lovely- foie gras in a cone with caramelised onions- the bar was set. Bravo. But it all headed South from there. Up next, was the goats cheese and beetroot starter. I'm a huge fan of goats cheese. I love it, but this was very mild- almost as if there was very little cheese within the panna cotta purée. And it was served on a slate plate. Slate plates do not actually annoy me as much as they do some people, but because the dish was quite purée based, aside from the chunky bits of beetroot, it made it almost impossible to get everything on to a fork. Up next was the black pudding, on a bed of mushy peas topped with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce. I have poached eggs at least three times a week. Poached eggs should never be hard. Ever. I was so disappointed because it meant my food was either sitting to be serviced for ages, even though it wasn't busy at all. Or the chef didn't care. Ugh. Next was a surf and turf served with mashed potatoes, a red wine jus and a stem of broccolini. The meat was actually very good. I just would't normally pair a strong red wine jus with prawns. There were two desserts- a deconstructed vanilla cheesecake- which was ok, but again served on slate mean't the biscuit base crumbs went flying of the plate every time I took a spoonful. The cheesecake itself was quite bland. No punch or tartiness from the fruit purée. The final dessert- a coconut brownie served with coconut ice-cream topped with white chocolate wasn't surpirsing either and was quite large compared to the last dish and just didn't seem to flow from the last few dishes. I even left some which is saying something because I never EVER leave food on my plate. I really wasn't wowed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Value for money was fine- it was €50 for the menu- but they really couldn't charge any more then that anyway because it wasn't up to scratch with other tasting menus in Ireland. I had a glass of red wine that I asked to be paired with my food, and the waiter failed to introduce what it was. It's little things like this that usually add to a service. I've chosen to eat out instead of eat at home and I expect my meal to be of a certain standard. Our espresso's were good. Overall, it could be so much more. It was very quiet for a Saturday night- max 5 tables in use at 7.45pm, but the tapas bar above was busy. Was that what we should have opted for? The menu itself looked decent with the a la carte options- our table next to us shared a lovely beef cut that smelled divine. There meal came out exactly as I cut into my hard poached egg and I couldn't help but feel cheated...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Did we choose the wrong option? Was it just a miss that day?! I would love to hear about your experience there!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-55431719710266499782016-03-01T23:15:00.000+00:002016-03-01T23:26:08.058+00:00Galway; The G Hotel, Loam and Aniar<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As my partner Ev is away most of the time, we decided that when he came home, we would book a few days away to Galway. We have heard amazing things about the food scene in the West- whether it's their open access to the sea's or their choice of organic rich produce, we couldn't wait to try out two raved about Michelin starred restaurants; Loam and Aniar. We also chose to stay at the G Hotel, another raved about location. So I decided to do a wee review on our experience. We will be back to Galway, but only for two of these three places....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I heard amazing reviews about the G, and so when Galway became our next adventure- I couldn't wait to try it. Designed by Philip Treacy, the hotel itself inside is beautiful. The tea-rooms and bar lounge play on amazing colour schemes and the bedrooms are bright and roomy. Our room was huge- with lots of rich velvets, an amazing acrylic + glass mixed table (that I wanted to rob!) and a beautiful full stone bathroom- with his and hers sinks and showers. It's supposed to be a five star, but I feel like it lacked the extra attention top hotels give. We stayed two nights including bed and breakfast for €590. So at nearly €300 a night, I expect a certain service that would be normally provided in lets say the Marker in Dublin. The G lacks that oooh la la, and personally I feel they are kept busy, because it's trendy to go for an afternoon tea and no one likes to complain.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My gripes; little or no service from checking in and out- we weren't asked one bit if we needed a hand with our luggage, if we needed a hand with reservations, if this was our first time in Galway?! Turn down service was at such an unrealistic time of 6pm. Surely every guest in the hotel is getting ready at that time for a dinner reservation or a party- ok, this idea of someone opening your bed covers for you for when you come back to your room at night does scream sheer laziness, but it's an expectation. I spent 7 days in Hotel Éclat in Beijing in August, and I was un-intrusively spoilt rotten. Breakfast each morning was chaotic. Not the breakfast itself but the sitting down process. On our first morning we waited 15 minutes to be seated. The breakfast room is too small for the size of the hotel and tables were then flowing out into the bar area. Breakfast itself was actually fine. There was the usual buffet section and also an option to order from the menu. My Eggs Benedict was actually very good. But another gripe would be the fruit section- half green watermelon?! If it's not ripe/nor in season why serve it? That's attention to detail. And my last gripe would be guests that are residents having to pay a fee just to use the pool and spa area. That's a first. In any hotel I have every stayed in. Fiercely disappointed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">2.5/5- Huge room for improvement and I would rather take my hard-earned money elsewhere. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><u>Loam</u> (<a href="http://loamgalway.com/">loamgalway.com</a> / Tweet @ Galway Loam)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We visited Loam on Friday. We were a bit skeptical when we first walked in- we chose an early seating for 6.30pm and the place only had a few full tables, but because the layout of the restaurant is super open and bare- it felt empty. </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This was my only negative thought for the night. What followed was a tasting menu so unusual yet so entertaining- we were actually surprised at how reasonable the cost was. I chose the wine paring at €105 and Evan went for just the menu €70- add in extra drinks on top of that, the bill was under €200. Very good value for what was presented on our plate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Our meal was seven courses long + Amuse bouche; (1) Oyster, Kohlrabi & yoghurt. (2) Monkfish liver, shiitake and seaweed. (3) Duck heart, chicory & buttermilk- I would drive three hours again just to have the duck heart. It was incredible. It melted in your mouth. I'm currently drooling. (4) Monkfish, salsify & radish. (5) Pork neck, artichoke and malt. (6) Rhubarb, horseradish and (7) Hazelnut, toasted hay- Can this ice-cream be made mainstream and put into our local store please?! No ice-cream will ever beat it. Not even Gelato on a cobbled street in Rome. Please sir could I have some more?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Loam have gone for a raw, earthy meets industrial feel for the decor. So it won't be for everyone. But having been to few michelin </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">eateries in Dublin and abroad, myself and Ev actually preferred this stripped down version. Gone away was the snobbery. And as we are often one of the youngest customers to step in establishments like this, we actually felt far more comfortable. So what seemed like a negative on our first few footsteps turned out to be a relaxed experience.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">4/5- incredible value for money- and those duck hearts!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><u>Aniar</u> (<a href="http://aniarrestaurant.com/">aniarrestaurant.com</a> / Tweet @ Aniar Galway)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">We visted Aniar on Saturday night. Ev had actually done a lot of research on where to eat in Galway and was very interested in JP McMahon's work and what he represents and we arrived with very empty bellies. And was prepared to be entertained. Aniar is super quaint. No more then 12 tables- it reminded me of a little deli</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> that would fit right in the Mediterranean somewhere. Aniar actually has a choice on how many courses you want for your tasting experience; 6, 8, 10 or 12. We chose 10, and just like Loam, I went with the wine pairing and Ev explored the craft beer menu. 10 course tasting menu was €150 with wine pairing, and €100 without. My friends often shudder at spending that much on a meal. And especially on wine. But each glass is specifically paired with specific tastes and textures on that plate. And your not just getting a cheap glass. There were organic and biodynamic wines too. I had the most beautiful fruity glass of a Mâcon Chardonnay.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My 10 course meal + Amuse bouche- Ev chose some other options for his; (1)mussel, scurvy grass, roe. (2)apple, leek and cucumber.(3)dexter, oyster and gooseberry- I have never had dexter before and it was served as a tartare (I think!) and the taste was incredible. (4)scallop, artichoke and rye. (5)pork belly, swede and egg. (6) venison, cabbage and damson.(7)tea sorbet- so beautiful on the palate. (8)cod, celeriac and cavolo nero- I'm a huge fan of celeriac and this was my favourite savoury plate of the night. (9)seabuckthorn, treacle and nori and (10)cheese, chutney and rye crisp. The presentation of the desserts were outstanding- they were almost too pretty to eat. I say almost..because let's be honest here, no one is getting in the way of my sweet tooth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">A special mention to the waiting staff that night. They complemented the night so well. Not over the top at all, super natural and explained everything really well and made valuable suggestions- especially an Austrian gentleman whose name I unfortunately did not catch. Kudos.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">4/5- fantastic service, creative pairings; seabuckthorn, treacle and nori anyone?! beautiful wine.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Have you been to Galway? What have you enjoyed? Any gems if we were to return?</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-60055192017241970512016-02-11T21:25:00.000+00:002016-02-11T21:25:29.328+00:00V-Day/ Give a hug day<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My <a href="http://leopardandbrut.blogspot.ie/2015/02/v-daygive-hug-day.html">pos</a>t last year on V-day was one of my more successful ones- it seems my more honest and close to the heart pieces tend to be more enjoyed by readers then posts about items we will likely never be able to afford!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And I'm going to celebrate a year to this day of more honest writing and cement the looming v-day, or as I like to call it- 'Give a hug day'. My boyfriend is just returning home from working abroad and I can't wait to squeeze the life out of him with a huge hug. And the one I will get in return will be what I've waited for weeks- a feeling of being safe! He spends at least half the year on the other side of the world- so when we have our time together, it's letting each other know that we care and love one another that matters.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">In a world full of grief, negativity, angst and hate- I really hope we all have at least one person we can turn to when needed. I hate the idea of someone not having someone in their time of need. So take a moment and think of everyone you have interacted with the last while- did they seem a bit off? Maybe they weren't being rude! Maybe there was something troubling them. A little 'are you ok?' can go along way. A cup of tea. A bar of chocolate. A hug!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As I get older (I swear i'm not as old as I nag!), I've come across more mental health problems in people close to me. Maybe it's not actually an increase, but more that I'm mindful and aware of people with problems mentally. My dad recently lost his uncle to suicide and I can't bare to imagine the emptiness he must have felt. It saddens me that some people still have no one to talk to. That they have no hope.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So, this week I'm encouraging myself to hug and be hugged by anyone I interact with (where humanely and appropriately possible!), ask a few more people are they ok?! and work wise- I want to develop a Worry Box for my students where they can leave the worries in a box incase they don't feel comfortable telling them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'd love to know more ideas about being mindful of others? Please share...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Happy Thursday and in advance- Give a Hug Day! Mine is going to be spent getting my nails done with Ev- tres romantic right lol!</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-71396360579412299232016-02-05T22:24:00.000+00:002016-02-05T22:35:23.520+00:00February Ponders + Wishlist<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I sort of dread February's- it's birthday month and being the impossible goal setter, every year I get older, I build up this sense of dread and vast feeling of anxiety! I hate that I'm not where I want to be at my age. I'm totally forward thinking, but the finish line seems so far away...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I really hoped for more control at the age of 26 going on 27. I always read about these successful ladies- doing it all, all so young... (and with a smile!) and fret as to why I am not achieving like these beautiful ladies. Have I taken too much on? Have I set my ambitions too high? My parents always taught me that what ever I want in life, I have to go out and work my bum for it. But sitting in my parents house in the converted attic, with a nasty bout of teenage skin and on the second season of Chicago Fire, I'm having a real sorry for myself moment! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My life isn't really <i>that </i>bad! Is it? And when I think about it more, my fear of failure turns into pangs of guilt. I have lots going on for me. I'm off to Barcelona and Galway in two weeks, and I'm reasonably healthy and happy! Or at least I should be...What right have I got for having a feel sorry for me moment. And then I realised that it's ok to be having a bad day (or month in my case!). It's ok to cry in the car! And it's certainly ok to not be content with how your life is panning out. It means I am ambitious and I have a desire to want to better myself. Nothing wrong with not wanting to be complacent....</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So biting the bullet, and wanting to shake off this rut, I have booked a few meals out with friends, made a reservation with the lovely ladies at Tropical Popical and created a February Wishlist...well because shopping make me happy!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Have a great weekend everyone!</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/february_wishlist/set?.embedder=4768595&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=189900573" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="February Wishlist" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/cQ8Gx3WuZUNHYG1Lmch9Qg/cid/189900573/id/bgPxtVbM5RGm2D19ZFZllw/size/c600x463.jpg" height="307" title="February Wishlist" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Clarisonic Smart Brush (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/cleansing-devices/clarisonic-smart-profile/invt/80x5109xs1828500&bklist=icat,4,beauty,electrical,cleansingdevices,">Brown Thomas</a>)- ...heck I'm nearly 27, but my skin is currently having a teen crisis. I have recently started Microdermabrasion- but this bad boy would actually be value for money compared to all the sessions I would have to get...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Camo print joggers (<a href="http://eu.topshop.com/en/tseu/product/new-in-this-week-2169943/new-in-this-week-485158/camo-print-joggers-5245011?bi=0&ps=200">Topshop</a>)- let's be real, I'm never going to be able to afford anything of the Yeezy collection?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Alive perspex court heels (<a href="http://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/2,37/2417285710">Office</a>)- a dupe of the Gianvito Rossi pumps that Miss Kim K always wears...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Pink appliqué triangle bra (<a href="http://eu.riverisland.com/women/lingerie--nightwear/lingerie/pink-appliqu-flower-triangle-bra-681731">River Island</a>)- because this is too pretty!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This Works Deep Sleep+ Pillow spray (<a href="http://www.beautybay.com/accessories/thisworks/deepsleeppluspillowspray/">Beauty Bay</a>)- I bought Ev this and he hasn't stopped raving about it plus Beauty Bay have a great deal on with the product.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Dr Lipp lip balm (<a href="http://www.beautybay.com/skincare/drlipp/originalnipplebalmforlips/">Beauty Bay</a>)- not only is my facial skin super inflamed at the moment, but my lips are dry and white- rave reviews have made we want this bad boy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Vans Sk8-Hi (<a href="https://www.size.co.uk/product/black-vans-sk8-hi/193634/">Size?</a>)- Sunday brunch shoes...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Brooch detailed high waist belt (<a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Brooch-Detail-Embellished-High-Waist-Belt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=6037387&cid=6992&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=204&sort=-1&clr=Nude&totalstyles=593&gridsize=3">ASOS</a>)- how pretty?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Airtex stripe midi dress (<a href="http://eu.topshop.com/en/tseu/product/new-in-this-week-2169943/new-in-this-week-485158/airtex-stripe-midi-dress-5247614?bi=0&ps=200">Topshop</a>)- Super flattering panelling (esp. for big hipped ladies like myself!), love the airtex material and the colour is very seductive looking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Kusmi Jasmine tea (<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/KUSMI-Tea-Paris-JASMINE-GREEN/dp/B00TVJUMDG/ref=sr_1_29?ie=UTF8&qid=1454672091&sr=8-29&keywords=kusmi+tea">Amazon</a>)- my favourite tea flavour ever.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Leopard Bikini (<a href="http://eu.riverisland.com/women/swimwear--beachwear/bikinis/facbrown-leopard-print-high-waist-bikini-bottoms-677424">River Island</a>)- Holiday prep + it's leopard! That's enough of an excuse</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Saint Laurent Monogramme sac Universite (<a href="https://www.net-a-porter.com/ie/en/product/651240/Saint_Laurent/monogramme-sac-universite-medium-leather-shoulder-bag-">Net-a-porter</a>)- hey a girl can dream right?! Plus isn't this the perfect size...</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-63632889811007907892016-01-21T12:06:00.000+00:002016-01-21T12:06:52.066+00:00January Wishlist...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The bank balance may be in the red...but I see nothing wrong with a bit of virtual shopping to get you focused and working hard for what you want! Here is my January wishlist.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Happy Shopping!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/january_wishlist/set?.embedder=4768595&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=187892799" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;" target="_blank"><img alt="January Wishlist" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/y4YIVMWYP1VXsi8WXhzyvA/cid/187892799/id/YumII6q85RGaspVYzX_htA/size/c600x513.jpg" height="341" title="January Wishlist" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">ASOS Leather look Culottes (<a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Leather-Look-Structured-Culotte/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5942121&CTARef=Recently%20Viewed&CTARef=Recently%20Viewed">ASOS</a>)- I love culottes, I love this colour and I love the price!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Spectrum 4 piece contour set (<a href="http://www.beautybay.com/accessories/spectrum/4piececontouringfaceset/">Beauty Bay</a>)- Because I have tired out my current brushes + I also love the colour of these ones...thats a reason right?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">MAGNIFICENT Sock boots (<a href="http://eu.topshop.com/en/tseu/product/shoes-485095/view-all-485413/magnificent-sock-boots-4644976?bi=200&ps=200">Topshop</a>)- I have these in black and all though quite pricey for a high street shoe (€120), they are sooo comfy. So of course I have to have these...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Saint Laurent card holder (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/new-in-womens-accessories/monogram-leather-cardholder/invt/176x1995x414577bj50j6920">Brown Thomas</a>)- because its pretty...and I could justify it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Lace crop top (<a href="http://eu.topshop.com/en/tseu/product/new-in-this-week-2169943/new-in-this-week-485158/delicate-lace-crop-top-5158401?bi=0&ps=200">Topshop</a>)- how pretty is this number? Ok I wouldn't wear it by itself, but just a peak of it under a shirt is super sexy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Bamboo print bikini (<a href="http://eu.topshop.com/en/tseu/product/clothing-485092/swimwear-485118/bamboo-print-halter-bikini-top-and-bottoms-4721207?bi=0&ps=200">Topshop</a>)- because that's summer motivation right there!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Handmade wool hat (<a href="http://www.zara.com/ie/en/collection-ss16/woman/accessories/handmade-wool-hat-c358026p3185266.html">Zara</a>)- a forever growing collection of mine, perfect for in between hair wash days and I think they jazz up any jeans/tee outfit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">ABH Brow definer (<a href="http://www.beautybay.com/cosmetics/anastasiabeverlyhills/browdefiner/">Beauty Bay</a>)- I've heard really good things about this product. Have you?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Maison Martin Margiela- Replica Lazy Sunday Morning fragrance (Brown Thomas)- smells simply divine...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Round sunglasses by Prada (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/sunglasses-for-her/round-sunglasses-polarized-pr27ns/invt/870x10017x8053672430462&bklist=icat,4,accessories,womens-accessories,sunglassesforher,">Brown Thomas</a>)- because the winter sun is just far too strong for my </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Black cigarette pants (<a href="http://eu.riverisland.com/women/trousers--leggings/cigarette-trousers/black-smart-belted-cigarette-trousers-681398">River Island</a>)- I'm off to Barcelona in February and these paired with a polo-neck and loafers is tres European right?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Weekend J'taime tee by Sundry (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/sunglasses-for-her/round-sunglasses-polarized-pr27ns/invt/870x10017x8053672430462&bklist=icat,4,accessories,womens-accessories,sunglassesforher,">ASOS</a>)- for brunch yah?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Leather whipstitch heel boots (<a href="http://eu.riverisland.com/women/shoes--boots/ankle-boots/beige-leather-whipstitch-heeled-shoe-boots-680910">River Island)</a>- Gahhhh! Died and gone to boot heaven!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Suede leather coat (<a href="http://eu.riverisland.com/women/coats--jackets/suede--faux-suede-jackets/brown-suede-biker-jacket-676779">River Island</a>)- timeless investment piece!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Pink tones animal a-line skirt (<a href="http://eu.topshop.com/en/tseu/product/new-in-this-week-2169943/new-in-this-week-485158/colourful-animal-a-line-skirt-5154976?bi=0&ps=200">Topshop</a>)- always partial to leopard...Pair with a sports vintage tee and ankle boots...tres chic!</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-57987679420792123702016-01-16T17:51:00.001+00:002016-01-16T17:58:46.489+00:00Cliff House Hotel<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My sisters and I sent our parents to the <a href="http://www.thecliffhousehotel.com/">Cliff House Hotel</a> last year for a present and when they returned from their Waterford adventure, they didn't stop raving about the place. Me and Ev are foodies and instead of spending our wages in the pub every weekend, we like to save up and take part in culinary experiences ( we've been to Nevin's MacNean House twice, l<span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-small;">'</span>Ecrivain and are slowly working our way around the tasting menus in Ireland!)- it was my anniversary present to him- a night away in the hotel, with a couples massage in the Well Spa and the Tasting menu in the one star Michelin House Restaurant .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This was my first time in Waterford. The drive down is beautiful (it was roughly about a 2.5 hour journey, but that was because we couldn't resist a stop in Avoca on the way for a Coconut Cappuccino!) and you really get to see Ireland, the landscape and it's mighty fine greenery. I think I often take it for granted. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">{ have you tried the Cappuccino made with coconut milk from Avoca? It's amazing. No need to add sugar and it's so creamy...I live about 40 minutes away from my nearest Avoca, which is maybe a good thing because these things could be seriously addictive...)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">{ok I added a filter, but seriously, check out the sky...}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We arrived early afternoon and once we checked in, a lovely gentleman knocked on our door with Prosecco to soak up while looking at the view. Tweet them before hand...you never know, you might get a surprise! That's what's so spectacular about the hotel...each room is positioned right in front of the sea, you are literally snuggled into a cliff and if you open the windows you can hear the waves crashing below...pure bliss! We went for a standard room, but it's huge...the bathroom has heated tiled floor, there is a nespresso machine in the room and my room had a pink and tartan theme going on throughout it! There was also a heavenly turndown service that we discovered coming back from dinner that night that I probably didn't appreciate as much as I should have (hey I had one too many...!)- lavender pillow bags on the bed and peaceful music set. Bliss!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">{tweet <a href="https://twitter.com/cliffhousehotel"><span style="color: #8899a6; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none !important;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">@</span></span><span class="u-linkComplex-target" style="color: #8899a6; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none !important;">cliffhousehotel</span>}</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We had a very quick lunch in the bar restaurant on our arrival(which was yum!) and went to straight to the Well Spa afterwards for our treatments. 90 minutes of pure heaven. I often get spa treatments, but this was the first time being in the same room as Ev whilst getting one- I thought I was going to burst into a fit of giggles!!! The couples room is beautiful and actually has a view of the sea...We checked out the sauna room, the pool and the outdoor jacuzzi (which I loved because it was freezing and raining outside yet I was toasty!) once we had gathered enough energy from the relaxation room....hey life's tough right?!Check out the Couples Spa menu <a href="http://www.thecliffhousehotel.com/wellness-and-activities/double-treatments">here</a>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Our Tasting Menu, curated by </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; letter-spacing: 0.22512000799179077px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">Martijn Kajuiter, who focuses on Irish produce, </span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">was at 8pm. Having done a few now, we have learn't a few tricks- don't leave a huge gap between foods that day. People often leave hours between meal time thinking they will be stuffed- not at all. The experience goes over three hours and you never feel uncomfortable!! Check out the wine list before hand. Generally, wine prices tend to be a lot more then your average restaurant, so make sure you budget for this. But you are not at an average restaurant. The wines have been tried, tested and specifically picked. I chose an amazing half bottle of <span style="background-color: white;">Mas de Daumas Gassac, Samuel Guibert 2013</span> </span><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">and haven't stopped talking about it...Do some research before hand (Ev actually likes the surprise element on the day....but I love getting to know new tastes that i'll be experiencing!). Tasting menus for me are like a gourmet cabaret show- it's an event, so be prepared to be entertained. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Dinner was top notch. Served on the most amazing dining set by <a href="http://www.pordamsa.com/">Pordamsa</a>- the copper cutlery are to die for!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We had for our Amuse Bouche; a cheese and onion froth, beetroot macaroons served with goats cheese and a celeriac mousse. </span><br />
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What we had for our starters we had <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">West Cork Scallop with j</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">erusalem </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">A</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">rtichoke</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">, H</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">am & </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">S</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">ea </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">S</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">pinach, </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">Dungarvan Rock Oyster with S</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">eaweed</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">, C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">ucumber & </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">urry and </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">Duck Foie Gras with M</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">ilk</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">, M</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">ushroom</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">, B</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">lack</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;"> O</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">live & </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">racker</span>;</span><br />
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What we had for mains; <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(89, 89, 89); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Atlantic Halibut served with</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(89, 89, 89); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">auliflower, </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">H</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">azelnut & </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">P</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">iccalilli </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">I</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">ce </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">ream, </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(89, 89, 89); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">Helvick Cod served with </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">O</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">xtail, </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">R</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">azorclam, </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">rosnes & </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">S</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.4px;">affron and </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(89, 89, 89); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">Irish Rose Veal served with a </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">W</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">inter </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">asserole</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">, T</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">arrago</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">n & M</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">aple Smoke</span></span><br />
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Dessert; <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">Organic Chocolate 65%</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(89, 89, 89); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>- </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">offee</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">, O</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">live </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">Oil, G</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">old & Sea</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;"> S</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">alt, </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">Seabuckthorn- R</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">ice, </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">C</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">ream & </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">H</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">ops and </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">Parfait “Nougatine”</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;"> served with </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">H</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">isbiscus ,</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">A</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">pple and </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">P</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: justify;">opcorn.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I literally rolled out of the restaurant and went straight the bar. The bartender made this most amazing Spiced Ginger Mojito- served in a giant jam jar (the thing was the size of my head!)- what I loved most about the drink was they they used the Old Jamaican ginger beer, which not a lot of bars stock and pubs never have it, so it was a proper treat!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Breakfast the next morning was simply delicious. The view of the bay, fruit plates and yoghurt to start, a three-tiered stand of bakery items, and then a choice of hot foods. We were full till the late afternoon. The weather in Ireland has been particularly bad this year, so we didn't take a walk up the cliffs (though the hotel has an entire wall dedicated to Hunter wellies should you have forgotten yours....) and so we took a walk instead on the beach as the tide was out and it was super fresh out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">{how cute are these Hunter wellies? Such a good idea....}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We said that if we were to come back, it would be for two nights, so we could spend more of the day exploring and walking and taking in the views...Ireland can be so incredibly beautiful when there is a pocket of blue sky on show...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">PRICING:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">ACCOMODATION b+b + TASTING MENU PACKAGE €530</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">COUPLES RETREAT €240</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">DRINKS IN HOUSE RESTAURANT (1/2 bottle of wine + 3 craft beers) €77</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Please also take into account tipping, travel to and from, drinks in the bar afterwards and early lunch we had at the bar restaurant.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-4199327933557781582016-01-02T19:31:00.003+00:002016-01-02T19:31:54.507+00:00Bettering me...<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I received two e-mails on what did I actually put on my vision board, I don't think it was purely to be nosey, but more so for ideas on what they could do for their own...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Again, writing it down and having it on display makes it so much more real then just in your head. Some readers might think I'm being too open or that it shouldn't be public knowledge...each to their own.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I actually split my board into four sections; Mind, Body, Work and Wants- The mind and body being really important factors to me (but I also think the most difficult...!). SOME of my focuses this year will be;</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1. Letting go- I find it hard to move on from the past. I have now decided that should I have a problem, I will deal with it within 3 days- if nothing can be resolved- move on!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2. Be ruthless- specifically work wise- I have shaped my business to be SO family friendly and affordable that it now has an impact on me financially. I hate saying no to people and always want to help people out. I come from a big family so I understand pressures people faced. Sometimes its ok to say no and sometimes you can't help everyone. The meaning of being Ruthless- it to having or showing no compassion or pity for others. I'm not saying that I'm going to be a selfish pig...but being overly compassionate towards others, can often lead you to being ruthless towards yourself....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">3. Food-prep- I love food, more then most things in life and I eat a lot! I also spend a huge amount on food- I am most definitely not one of these girls that can forget to eat for the day...So weekly shopping in Aldi or Lidl and cooking for the week on my quiet day (Sunday!) will help me prepare for the week. Emptying my purse with just enough to get me a tea or coffee will help too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4. Avoid moaning- I am the biggest whinge bag you will meet! I worked for 54 day straight before Christmas and actually didn't stop telling everybody about it. How embarrassing?! It became so natural I didn't even think about it when I was saying it. The rest of the world probably work longer amounts of time straight. Shut-up moaning Yas! I do actually enjoy what I get to do every day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">5. Saving for a home for Ev and I- I am 26 still living at home and the perks of a full fridge and Sky Sports are dwindling. I want to start my future with my partner. I want my own space.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">6. Fixing my skin- having come off the pill about 15 months ago after being on it for nearly 9 years, I have developed clogged skin, I want youthful skin, that glows and isn't tired looking. Diet and stress are important factors in fixing this too! It isn't all about spending money on fancy products and getting treatments...but I definitely won't say no to a spa gift...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">7. Walk more- I love walking and coupled with the fact that I spend on average 20 hours driving a week- I NEED to stretch my legs out! Some of my favourite places to go are Howth, Kileen Castle and Dalgan park.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'd love the hear what you have put down- mail me at yasminaaniss@gmail.com if your not comfortable leaving a comment...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hope you are all having a lovely weekend, xxx</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-62617634265841151762016-01-01T23:40:00.000+00:002016-01-01T23:40:03.254+00:00Vision Board 2016<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Firstly...A very happy new year! I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas and enjoyed some time off with people close to you! My Christmas was a bit short this year as I worked right up to it, and have had a few random days of here and there due to gigs despite it being the school holidays (I teach!)...but I am not complaining- it's work and I'm grateful for it...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Ev suggested a few days ago about doing up our own vision board for 2016- the board itself having a total 'better me' focus. We both discussed things we weren't happy with about ourselves, things we think we could improve on and also about each other. Self-evaluation and of others is healthy. It's not negative. Some people mistake it for being harsh, but evaluating yourself to better yourself is being honest with yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, we took a trip to Blanchardstown shopping centre and bought little bits and bobs to create our board- magazines to cut out images, cute drawing pins, coloured card and two large cork boards. It cost all in all under €25 and we have so much craft stuff left over so I am sure it could be done for way cheaper if your on a tight budget! And last night on NYE (accompanied with a heavenly glass of red wine and a mid way feast of an antipasti board!) we got creating....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Some goals are easily attainable, some not so much and will require a huge amount of hardwork. I debated putting things down that are only dreams...but dreams are healthy! Some goals were personal- a reflection of things I have done wrong or traits about myself that I don't like and some were to better other peoples interaction with me!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There are loads of ideas on Pinterest about vision boards...some that I researched are all colour co-ordinated and have a serious amount of detail...each to their own. The board in now sitting bang on my desk. I have no choice but to see it every day. Resolutions can be made, but if they sit in the brain, they can easily be pushed aside and you lose focus...or so they do with me!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend- tomorrow is my last day off before I am back into work mode and I am spending it with my mum in Kildare village. Yey!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Happy Friday, xxx</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-89451947395946760982015-12-16T16:12:00.005+00:002015-12-16T16:12:49.657+00:00L & B Gift Guide 2015: Presents for Him<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Stuck on what to buy for your boyfriend this year? Sick of buying a new shirt for him every Christmas? These are my top picks that any gent would be delighted to see under the tree...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Happy Shopping!</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/gift_guide_2015_gifts_for/set?.embedder=4768595&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=185025336" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="L & B GIFT GUIDE 2015- Gifts for Him" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/7z7FmfFRCyXkYqo5yw8A/cid/185025336/id/DnDuTQ_k5RGfQO3Imu7EJQ/size/c600x526.jpg" height="350" title="L & B GIFT GUIDE 2015- Gifts for Him" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Men's Society Beard Oil (<a href="http://www.asos.com/Mens-Society/Mens-Society-Beard-Oil/Face-Rag/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5878919&cid=16091&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=204&sort=-1&clr=Multi&totalstyles=456&gridsize=3">ASOS</a>)- whose man doesn't have a beard?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;"><span itemprop="name" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Apple Watch 42mm Stainless Steel Case with Saddle Brown Classic Buckle </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">(</span><a href="http://www.apple.com/ie/shop/buy-watch/apple-watch/42mm-stainless-steel-case-with-saddle-brown-classic-buckle?product=MLC92B/A&step=detail" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Apple</a><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">)- I love this particular strap as it tones down the geeky element of the watch.</span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Tom Dixon Charcoal Scent diffuser (<a href="http://www.mrporter.com/en-ie/mens/tom_dixon/charcoal-scent-diffuser-fire/664192?ppv=2">Mr Porter</a>)- for the house proud...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Phaidon set of 10 paperback city books (<a href="http://www.mrporter.com/mens/phaidon/set-of-10-paperback-wallpaper--city-guides/674080?ppv=2">Mr Porter</a>)- for the travelling guru...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Ray-Ban Aviators (ASOS)- nothing beats a classic pair.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Nike AM 1 Leather Premium (</span><a href="https://www.size.co.uk/product/brown-nike-air-max-1-leather-premium/190503/" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Size?</a><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">)- sick colourway and the premium design means the finish should be that little bit tighter.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Nike SB X Polar Beanie (<a href="https://www.size.co.uk/product/orange-nike-sb-x-poler-beanie/191013/">Size?</a>)- because his county colours beanie never matches his clothes and THIS will!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Vitamix Pro 300 (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/vitamix/pro-300-black/invt/98x5410x56144">Brown Thomas</a>)- for the gains and all that </span></span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">malarky...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Gentleman's Afternoon Tea (<a href="http://www.morrisonhotel.ie/en/special-offers/gentlemens-tea.html">Morrison Hotel</a>)- While you go shopping obvs...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">GoPro HERO 4 (</span><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/GoPro-HERO4-Session-Action-Camera/dp/B00YMZF39C/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1450259187&sr=8-6&keywords=go+pro" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Amazon</a><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">)- Ev has one of these and absolutely loves it. He brings it away on all his trips, even when he goes running...</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1234664802253677313.post-79072690798151341132015-12-03T10:57:00.000+00:002015-12-03T11:03:52.038+00:00L & B Gift Guide 2015: Gifts under €45 for Him and Her<br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Sometimes a lavish gift isn't feasible! Heck, I'm at that uncomfortable mid 20's age where I am supposed to be seeing more greens then red arrows in my e-banking and so splurging isn't a big factor in this years shopping! Below are gifts for him and her under €45 and in fact most of the gifts below are actually under €25! Winning! I debated about classifying them as stocking fillers...but they seem too good to be grouped with a clementine and chocolate coins and if I received one of these presents, i'd be absolutely delighted!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Happy E-shopping on this most miserable day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/gift_guide_2015_gifts_for/set?.embedder=4768595&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=183970258" style="font-family: -webkit-standard;" target="_blank"><img alt="L & B GIFT GUIDE 2015- Gifts for Him and Her Under €45" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/qiBZlu1lNB3JTYLTcMn7UQ/cid/183970258/id/7ui1S6uZ5RGhPdK9ihlwOg/size/c600x445.jpg" height="295" title="L & B GIFT GUIDE 2015- Gifts for Him and Her Under €45" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Mock Croc Bag (<a href="http://www.zara.com/ie/en/woman/bags/view-all/-c734144p3212055.html">Zara</a>) €29.95- how luscious is this bag. Mock croc and bottle green. Perfection.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Velvet bow tie (<a href="http://www.zara.com/ie/en/man/accessories/view-all/velvet-bow-tie-c733868p2978100.html">Zara</a>) €17.95- jazz up your white shirt!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Wide brim felt hat (<a href="http://www.zara.com/ie/en/man/accessories/view-all/wide-brim-felt-hat-c733868p3080504.html">Zara</a>) €29.95- because men in hats are yum!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Kusmi Tea Wellness box (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/kusmi-tea/wellness-tea-sampler-box/invt/66x5347xbien525&bklist=icat,3,gifting,gifts-stocking-fillers,">Brown Thomas</a>) €26- perfect way to find a new favourite blend.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Almond Petit Gift (<a href="http://ie.loccitane.com/almond-petit-gift,103,1,47849,813895.htm">L'Occitane</a>) €24- the smell is simply divine and make the perfect travel/handbag companion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">4 pack emoji briefs (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/4-pack-emoji-briefs/invt/14x5562x4knemojmu&bklist=icat,4,gifting,gifts-for-her,gifts-for-her-under-50,">Brown Thomas</a>) €40- because who can't cope without an emoji in their life!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Calvin Klein 3 pack trunks (<a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/underwear+socks/three-pack-cotton-stretch-trunks/invt/52x5215xu2662g998&bklist=icat,4,gifting,gifts-for-him,gifts-for-him-under-50,">Brown Thomas</a>) €46- bieber fever!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Adele- '25' (<a href="http://www.hmv.ie/25/movies-games-entertainment/pd/126458?path=Music">HMV</a>) €13.99- how is she only 25!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Coco Chanel Life Portraits book (<a href="http://www.asos.com/Books/Coco-Chanel-Life-Portraits-Book/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5765149&cid=18654&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Multi&totalstyles=36&gridsize=3">ASOS)</a> €17.65- for my big adult real world future house I never seem to be able to save for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Fantastic Cities colouring book (<a href="http://www.asos.com/Books/Fantastic-Cities-Large-Colouring-Book/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5777027&cid=18654&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Multi&totalstyles=36&gridsize=3">ASOS</a>) €16.16- mindfulness and all that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Green & Blacks Miniature Bar Collection (<a href="http://www.tesco.ie/groceries/Product/Details/?id=285131570">Tesco</a>) €6- because Green & Blacks chocolate is good for you right?!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Châteauneuf-du-Pape (<a href="http://www.tesco.ie/groceries/Product/Details/?id=254092414">Tesco</a>) €20- in celebration of Olivia Pope returning to our screens.</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04772287645499576530noreply@blogger.com0