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Monthly Archives: February 2018

So, if you haven't noticed already, Valentine's Day is officially upon us, and as happy couples continue to declare their for each other all over social media, we're preparing for a movie night with the real loves of our lives – our girl gang.

Sound like your kind of night? Gather your closest lady loves, fill the snack bowls and settle in for a night of laughing, crying and good old fashion girl power – after all isn't that what Galentine's is all about?

Netflix has tonnes of movies for you to binge on, so what are are you waiting for?

Magic Mike XXL

It's been three years since Mike Lane's (Channing Tatum) retirement from stripping, but the former dancer misses the excitement and feeling of being on stage. Most of all, though, he misses the best friends that he ever had, the crew known as the Kings of Tampa. Opportunity comes knocking when the guys look him up as they travel to Myrtle Beach, S.C., for a stripper convention. With the promise of outrageous fun, a reinvigorated Mike can't resist the chance to join in and take it off again.

Topless Channing Tatum? – Say no more.

Bring It On: All or Nothing

When her father gets laid off, prom queen shoo-in Britney Allen (Hayden Panettiere) has to drop out and transfer to her ritzy high school's underfunded crosstown rival. At her new school, Britney is recruited for the cheerleading squad by its tough captain, Camille (Solange Knowles). As Britney struggles to win the respect of her new peers, they prepare to face off against the squad at her old school for a chance to dance back-up for Rihanna (Rihanna) in her next music video.

Bounus points if you attempt the cheer routines. 

Bridesmaids 

Annie (Kristen Wiig), is a maid of honour whose life unravels as she leads her best friend, Lillian (Maya Rudolph), and a group of colourful bridesmaids (Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey and Ellie Kemper) on a wild ride down the road to matrimony. Annie's life is a mess. But when she finds out her lifetime best friend is engaged, she simply must serve as Lillian's maid of honour. Though lovelorn and broke, Annie bluffs her way through the expensive and bizarre rituals. With one chance to get it perfect, she'll show Lillian and her bridesmaids just how far you'll go for someone you love.

A guaranteed crowd-pleaser. 

Mamma Mia

Donna (Meryl Streep), an independent hotelier in the Greek islands, is preparing for her daughter's wedding with the help of two old friends. Meanwhile Sophie, the spirited bride, has a plan. She secretly invites three men from her mother's past in hope of meeting her real father and having him escort her down the aisle on her big day.

Brush up on your ABBA before the sequel drops later this year. 

The Breakfast Club

Five high school students from different walks of life endure a Saturday detention under a power-hungry principal (Paul Gleason). The disparate group includes rebel John (Judd Nelson), princess Claire (Molly Ringwald), outcast Allison (Ally Sheedy), brainy Brian (Anthony Michael Hall) and Andrew (Emilio Estevez), the jock. Each has a chance to tell his or her story, making the others see them a little differently — and when the day ends, they question whether school will ever be the same.

The ultimate throwback! 

Sisters

When their parents decide to sell their home, siblings Maura (Amy Poehler) and Kate (Tina Fey) learn that they have one weekend to clean out the junk from their old bedroom. Unhappy with the news, the recently divorced Maura and her hotheaded sister make plans to throw one final bash to recapture their glory days with their former classmates. As the raging party begins to spiral out of control, the gals soon realise that there may not be a house left once the dust settles.

Always a good time! 

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This morning, while those of us in relationships received love nots and cards from our signifiant others, a different kind of Valentines Day card was being delivered to Dáil Éireann.

Time Travellers for Choice, a branch of the Abortion Rights Campaign, donned their historical costumes and presented themselves on Kildare Street with a card highlights that what Irish women want for Valentine's Day, and have wanted for centuries, is the right to choose. 

Holding the card emblazoned with an image of two love birds perched side by side, campaigner Lute al Raad cut a striking figure in her Suffragette costume and Repeal sash. 

'We are from the Abortion Rights Campaign, and in particular today we are Time Travellers for Choice so we are a project under the Abortion Rights Campaign and we are here to deliver Valentines cards to politicians,' Lute told SHEmazing.

'Its our pro choice Valentines Card, which says "This Valentine's Day, give them what they really want… Bodily Autonomy."'

The demonstration comes as a reminder that 100 years after Irish women gained the right to vote, we are still campaigning for the right to make private, personal decisions about our lives and our health.'

It reminds us that while we may have secured right to vote 100 years ago, we're still centuries behind in the area of abortion rights. 

With the referendum looming in may, you can donate to The Abortion Rights Campaign here.

 

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It seems somewhat of a cliché to talk about body shaming, as it's discussed so often, but the real issue is the fact that the narrative hasn’t changed in decades.

No matter how often we 're told to not body shame, it still happens every day in some way. Whether you accidentally judge another person in your head for gaining a bit of weight over Christmas or even chastise yourself in the mirror for not being good enough – it is pretty hard to escape.

But things need to change.

I am a size 16, and 5 foot 10 – there is little-to-nothing small about me. I do go to the gym a few times a week, I eat healthy enough, and I am pretty happy with myself. Usually.

People of All Shapes and Sizes Walk the Streets of Germany in Lingerie for #BodyLove Campaign http://www.people.com/article/real-people-pose-underwear-germany-body-positivity

Growing up, I was always just physically ‘bigger’ than any of my friends, and while I pretended to be okay with that, it was far from easy.

Teen discos turned into self-esteem bashing 101. School wasn't a whole lot easier. And even walking down the street, there would always be the cruel idiot who would shout ‘fat’ or 'miss piggy' at me. I even remember the moment I was walking down the street when someone from my class commented on my 'tree trunk' legs.

Losers, but it hurt nonetheless. 

That was 10 years ago, and it still happens.

Everywhere we turn, there is a new modelling campaign or catwalk show (calling you out, Victoria Secret!) with thin women at the forefront. Why? Because they wear the clothes better? Why is a size 0 the beauty standard in today’s world? Why is there a beauty standard at all?

And the worst thing? It isn't just society – it is a low-hum of unacceptance that we have started to absorb from social media. We scroll through feeds of women who have the ‘ideal’ figure, and cannot help but feel less than perfect.

But we are all perfect, whether you are slim and lean, or a little bit jiggly in places.

The issue runs deeper, however.

When someone now passes a compliment my way, I immediately get annoyed. Not because I don’t believe them, or because they don’t mean it – simply because it is the same compliment every time.

‘You have such a pretty face,’ seems nice enough, right? For me though, each time I hear this statement, I cannot help but be reminded of the fact that not once has anyone ever said I have a nice figure, nice legs, or a nice stomach.

Full disclosure, I do not have abs of steel (at all) or legs for days, but why should that mean that I am unworthy of praise?

Image result for any.body co

The world is making progress, this is certain. However, for every step forward we take, it certainly seems as though we take two steps back.

We have amazing women like Ashley Graham and Beth Woodhead spreading body positivity every day, with their beautiful figures, and sensational personalities. Sure, their thighs may rub off each other, but that's life, lovelies.

We’re all, every last one of us, gorgeous in our own way. So, bring it on 2018 – let’s ditch beauty standards, and accept our bodies.  

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Another day, another delicious gin we simply NEED to taste (and photograph for those sweet Insta likes).

Anyway, the Internet's latest alcoholic sensation comes in the form of parma violet gin – inspired by our favourite sweets from back in the day. 

That's right ladies, what was once a childhood treat, is now an excuse to get a buzz on.

Plus, it literally looks like a magic bloody potion – what's not to love?

The brilliant minds behind this tipple?  Zymurgorium Manchester, who created the 'Sweet Violet Gin Liqueur' with an ode to nostalgia. 

The Drink Supermarket, where you can by the gin, described it as:

'Sweet violet heaven made for the gods? Well not exactly, but a wonderful liqueur nonetheless. Great replacement for violet based liqueurs as the role of 20 botanicals really do provide a unique taste. Enjoy any how you like.'

 

Need this  #parmaviolets #gin #violetgin

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Still not convinced (weird, but okay) – we had a gawk at the Zymurgorium website to get more information, so keep reading.

'Sweet Violets supposedly were a gift from Zeus the king of the Greek pantheon as a comfort to Io for whom he loved but had to turn into a heifer to save her from Hera’s wrath' – every day is a school day, lads. 

'Sweet Violets are a beautiful find and have a very unique sweet pastelly taste and a strong scent. As a drink it can be used exactly like Crème de Violette but as it has been refined with over 20 other botanicals contained in our Gin made in Manchester’s first Gin distillery; it is also equally as good on it’s own, with lemonade, mixed with ice cream or in baking!'

'Try making an Aviator cocktail with this much superior violet Manchester gin liqueur!'

A 500ml bottle of this magical elixer comes in at around 25 quid – tad expensive, but worth it! 

Okay, we seriously need this drink… immediately!

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A recent study found that 41 per cent of Irish women and 30 per cent of Irish men have made the conscious decision to limit their dairy consumption.

It's thought that the growing number of bloggers and influencers promoting plant-based diets has led to the decreased intake, with one in ten people admitting they now believe cow's milk is unhealthy.

Instead, many consumers are now looking to non-dairy alternatives such as soy or almond, but with tonnes of conflicting reports about the nutritional benefits of each, it can be difficult to choose that product that is right for us.

In an attempt to settle the dairy vs non-dairy debate once and for all, we've done some research and compared the health benefits of cow's milk and its most popular alternatives.

Full-Fat Cow's Milk

Pros: As well as being a great source of protein, full-fat cow's milk is rich in minerals and vitamins, essential for helping your body function properly. In fact, just one glass contains five per cent of your recommended intake of vitamins and up to 28 per cent of your daily calcium requirement.

Cons: Cow's milk is high in saturated fat, which, when consumed in excess amounts, increase levels of 'bad' cholesterol.

Semi Skimmed Cow's Milk

Pros: Semi skimmed cow's milk provides much the same nutrients as its full-fat counterpart, however it's lower calorie count and added protein makes it ideal for weight loss. 

Cons: As a means of compensating for the reduced fat content, extra sugar is sometimes added to make it taste better. However, it's worth reading the label before you make your choice as the same can't be said for every brand.

Soy Milk

Pros: Cholesterol, saturated and trans fats are all naturally absent from soy milk, making it a good choice when it comes to heart health. What's more, research  published in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB), suggests childhood consumption of soy reduces the risk of bone degradation later in life.

Cons: Some studies claims soy can mimic the female hormone estrogen, thus leading to an increased risk of breast cancer. Other research claims the ingredient could have a possible negative impact on men's fertility.

Almond Milk

Pros: Almonds are packed with essential nutrients such as protein, fibre, magnesium and iron. They also contain flavonoids, which help to lower levels of 'bad' cholesterol and maintain heart health. 

Cons: Some argue that almond milk is not a healthy alternative to dairy as it does not contain as much protein or calcium. However, it's worth nothing that some varieties are now fortified with calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12.

Coconut Milk

Pros: Coconut milk is an excellent source medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) – a type of fatty acid that is sent directly to the liver, and then utilised as energy. It also boasts a number of antibacterial and anti-fungal elements to boost your immune system.

Cons: Coconut milk contains specific carbohydrates that may cause stomach upset, meaning people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) should consider eliminating it from their diets.

Rice Milk

Pros: As well as being the most hypoallergenic of all milk products, rice milk also contains low amounts of saturated fat. Its balanced nutritional value makes it the perfect alternative for those who can not tolerate other milks, dairy or other.

Cons: Unlike the dairy option, rice milk lacks both protein (0.67 grams per eight-ounce serving) and calcium (283 mg per eight-ounce serving). However, much of the ready-made rice milk we see on supermarket shelves has been fortified to include 25 to 30 per cent calcium.

 

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So, we're well into February at this stage, and the Christmas sales seem like a pretty distant memory.

However, there are still some serious bargains out there, as most of the sales are starting to well and truly wind down. 

Actually, most places are basically giving the stuff away by now, so it is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself. 

We had a good stalk of the Zara website, and found so many goodies for a tenner or less. 

Let's do this thing…

Printed Camisole Dress, €9.99.

Image 3 of PRINTED CAMISOLE DRESS from Zara

Tweed Top with Contrasting Ruffle, €9.99

Image 1 of TWEED TOP WITH CONTRASTING RUFFLE from Zara

 Wide Poplin Trousers, €7.99

Image 3 of WIDE POPLIN TROUSERS from Zara

Sateen Pointed Ankle Boots, €5.99.

Image 1 of SATEEN POINTED ANKLE BOOTS WITH LOW HEEL from Zara

Short Sleeve Crossover Blouse, €9.99.

Image 2 of SHORT SLEEVE CROSSED FRONT BLOUSE from Zara

Flowing Cropped Trousers, €3.99.

Image 2 of FLOWING CROPPED TROUSERS from Zara

Metallic Mesh Bucket Bag, €7.99.

Image 4 of METALLIC MESH MINI BUCKET BAG from Zara

 Printed Mini Dress, €9.99.

Image 2 of MINI DRESS WITH PRINT from Zara

Embroidered Sequin Jeans, €9.99.

Image 2 of EMBROIDERED SEQUINNED JEANS from Zara

Off the Shoulder Top, €9.99.

Image 6 of OFF-THE-SHOULDER TOP WITH GUIPURE DETAIL. from Zara

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Love her or loath her, there's no denying that Kim Kardashian has gorgeously radiant skin.

Sure, she's got a team of beauty experts whose only job is to make her look utterly flawless from head to toe – but let's face it, take away the contour and highlight and the women would still look great.

Writing on her app, the reality star recently revealed the 15 products she uses to slow down the ageing process, and one very familiar brand featured on the list.

You may have heard of a little cult product by the name of The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid in Squalane – an emulsion that claims to help unclog pores, boost collagen, reduce fine lines, and help skin become even and supple. 

Now, for those kind of results you'd probably expect a fairly hefty price tag, but oh how wrong you'd be! 

Online retailer ASOS has recently started to stock the miracle skin care range, and with prices starting from just €6.00, it's never been easier to get that Kardashian glow.

If it's good enough for Kim, it's good enough for us!

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The Notebook is often hailed as one of the greatest romantic movies of our time, and with the old Hollywood rapport between the leading characters, it's hard not to get wrapped up in the romance and tragedy. 

However, the movie is also seen as a little sappy thanks to the OTT dialogue and declarations of love scattered throughout – so what if it was given a more relatable edge?

Giz A Laugh and Windup Merchatz are giving us a glimpse at the film if it had been set in Dublin. 

Image result for the notebook

From the typical arguments about what to order from the takeaway to Snapchatting stunts on a Ferris wheel, this is an essential watch for Valentines Day. 

Check it out below and prepare to howl. 

 

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Valentine's Day is officially upon us, and while you and your bae may have decided that staying in and doing nothing is the way to go, you can still make a night on the couch pretty special. 

Here are three minimal effort, at-home date ideas for couples who just are more into Netflix and chill than fancy dinner dates.

Netflix themed night

If your partner has a cult favourite Netflix series – have a Netflix & Chill night with that theme. 

Binge watch the show while cosy on the couch, and order or purchase food and snacks that match the series.

If they're a Stranger Things fan, cook waffles (proper ones, not Eggos) with nutella and strawberries, and snack on Halloween candy. 

Feeling frisky?

If you're not afraid of a bit of cringe, and you're open to sexual adventure, play a wish list game. 

Each partner writes down three things they have always wanted to try between the sheets, and if you both find that you have written down one that is the same – try it tonight. 

If not, the opposite partner chooses an activity from the other's sheet – as long as they're honestly happy to try it, and you can try out two new activities in the one night. 

Make it cinematic

Going to the cinema is a classic date concept, and it can easily be recreated at home. 

Pick up an affordable iPhone projector and stream your partner's favourite movie on a blank wall in one of your homes, and get the microwave to work popping vats of popcorn. 

Make a comfy fort of pillows and blankets on the floor and lie back and direct the projector at the ceiling for an even cosier experience.

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So, the most stomach churning of Hallmark holidays is upon us, but rather than moping in single or semi-singledom, we're choosing to make this lovable day about the gals. 

While thousands of 'the boy done good' captioned pictures of designer bags and Victoria's Secret hauls flood Instagram, we've decided that we'll be sinking pints and G&Ts with our fellow single crew members.

Where exactly? Well, Drop Dead Twice is hosting the ultimate antidote to this love sick holiday – The Netflix & Chill pub quiz. 

The pub quiz is completely free for teams to enter, and the team with the best name wins a delish bottle of The Dubliner Whiskey, so even if your trivia skills aren't up to scratch, your name-choosing may win you some drank. 

For the more competitive among us, it's time to get the flash cards out and start swotting. 

The theme of the quiz is, of course, Netflix, so we're sure that every team member will have a bit of organic knowledge in there somewhere. 

The event will be held at The Tap Room in Drop Dead Twice on Francis Street, Dublin.

The venue recently had a refurbishment and is looking laaaavely, and now has more than 20 craft beers on tap for those knowledgable in both trivia and an excellent brew.

Now to watch the entire series of Stranger Things again before tonight, just in case it comes up.

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With Valentine's Day approaching, there are some of us who might be struggling with much more than the concept of not receiving a card this year. 

All around us in our community are people struggling with mental health issues, and sometimes silently. 

Luckily, there are places like Pieta House which work to support these individuals. 

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, iconic vintage store Nine Crows is showing serious love for both Pieta House and the wider community by launching a campaign to combat the sometimes deadly silence and stigma which can surround depression and mental health issues. 

Tomorrow, from 11am onwards, both Nine Crows Galway and Nine Crows Dublin will be hosting an event for vintage fans to come together and chill with a bottle of West Coast Cooler to raise funds for the vital work done by the people at Pieta House.

20pc of all sales made in Nine Crows tomorrow will be donated to the charity, who support people struggling with depression, self harm and suicidal thoughts. 

There will also be donation buckets on hand to lob your change into. 

'We've decided to hold an in-store event in both our Dublin and Galway stores in aid of Pieta House this Valentine’s Day where we can all hang out together and show our love for each other while raising some much needed funds for a cause that has deeply affected our community.'

'Join us for some deadly tunes, super cute selfies at our selfie station and some FREE West Coast Cooler,' reads the event description.'

 Cant make it down to update your vintage collection? You can donate to Pieta House here. 

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Valentine's Day is mere hours away, but if you're anything like us you've left everything to the last minute. 

Perhaps it's the fact that Wednesday isn't exactly the ideal day for the romantic holiday to fall on, or maybe you'd rather not buy into gimmick of it all – but even if flowers and chocolates aren't your thing, it's still a good excuse for you and your partner to indulge in a well-deserved date night. 

We've done some research and compiled a list of the of the country's most romantic restaurants, any of which would provide the perfect setting for a last-minute Valentine's dinner. 

Enjoy! 

Luna, Drury Street, Dublin 2

You've got to try: The Pollo, Cavolo e Funghi, Tarragon ( or Chicken, Cabbage, Mushrooms and Tarragon to you and me). 

 

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L'Ecrivain, Baggot Street, Dublin 2 

You've got to try: The Aged Irish Beef Fillet – G'wan, treat yourself! 

Kai, Sea Road, Galway 

You've got to try: The Quinoa Cakes, Ricotta, Salsify and Asparagus – a dangerously delicious combination. 

 

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Tannery, Dungarvan, Waterford 

You've got to try: The hazelnut parfait, poached pear, glazed puff pastry *drools*

Amicus, Paul Street, Cork 

You've got to try: The Espresso Martini – Java Organic Espresso, Kettle One Vodka, Kahlua, Simple Syrup (em, yes please!)

 

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The Honest Vegan, Belfast

You've got to try: The Cauliflower Buffalo Bites – trust us! 

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