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Monthly Archives: February 2018

If you haven't yet got around to reading the hilarious Irish best-selling novel Oh My God What A Complete Aisling, we have just one question for you – what on earth have you been doing with your spare time?

The book, which tells the story of 28-year-old Aisling who lives at home in Ballygobbard with her parents, proved to be a huge hit with readers upon its release last year, and now, it looks like the typical Irish cailín is all set for the big screen.

Taking to Twitter, writers, Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen announced that Element Pictures have acquired the film rights.

The award-winning production company has brought us titles like Room and The Lobster – so it's safe to say we're expecting good things.

Speaking in a statement from the production company, the authors said: “We are so delighted to be working with Element Pictures to bring Aisling to the big screen. Imagine! Aisling on the big screen!

"We’ve known this character for ten years so to be given the opportunity to take her from the pages of our beloved book and transform her into a walking, talking, caring (and judging, let’s be honest) girl in front of a camera is beyond our wildest dreams. We can’t wait to start!”

We cannot wait for this!

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Spring is one of the trickiest times of the year when it comes to style – especially when we live in a country that can't seem to make up its mind about what season it actually is

It's hard to know what to wear when a typical days consists of rain, snow, sun and sleet – but there are a few essential items that will work for all weather forecasts. 

We've complied a list of six essential fashion items that will make the transition from winter to spring a whole lot easier. 

1. Over-the-knee boots 

A winter staple that will keep you warm and cosy no matter what the weather throws at you. 

Pair them with skinny jeans or thick leggings in colder temperatures or flowy dresses and skirts when then sun finally decides to make an appearance. 

Black Suedette Cleated Over the Knee Boots // New Look €59.99

 

2. Denim jacket 

Consider going up a size so you can easily layer up during the colder months.

Denim isn't exactly the warmest fabric going, but when themed with a fleecy hoodie or cosy knit, it adds an edgy vibe to even the dullest outfit. 

In Spring, ditch the layers and pair with bright trousers or colourful tea dresses. 

Light Blue Oversized Ripped Denim Jacket // River Island €55.00

 

3. Nude jumper 

Let's face it, a good jumper is an essential part of any Irish women's wardrobe. 

Whether you're wrapping up for a bitter snowfall or just looking for some extra warmth on a cool summer's evening, a stylish knit is the perfect edition to any outfit. 

Opt for a neutral tone to take through the four seasons. 

Lexi Rib Crop Jumper // Boohoo €9.00

4. A classic trench 

Effortlessly achieve the 'girl about town' look with this wardrobe essential. 

Not only will a classic trench coat serve you well throughout the transitional period, but invest in a good quality piece and it'll remain an integral part of your wardrobe for years to come. 

Beige Longline Belted Trench Coat // Pretty Little Thing €42.00

5. Check trousers 

Chic, effortless and oh-so versatile. 

Finding the right fit for your shape and size can be a bit of a pain, but once you find that perfect pair, you'll be amazed at all the ways you can style these bad boys. 

Theme with chunky knits and turtle necks for am elegant winter outfit, or a simple cotton T-shirt for that casual spring look. 

Grey Check Glitter Tie Waist Tapered Trousers // River Island €50.00

6. Tights 

The ultimate layering essential – we'd be absolutely lost without them. 

It's the perfect way to cosy-up any outfit, meaning you can continue to wear your favourite summer pieces, even in the depths of winter. 

 Rib Over The Knee Tights // ASOS €10.81

 

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Listen, I am a dog person, through and through.

HOWEVER, I personally think that cats get themselves a bad rep, and they don’t deserve it!

I decided to set the record straight by asking my cat-loving friends why they love their furry felines.

Here are the reasons that cats make the ‘best’ pets.

cat banana GIF

1. No vermin problem. 

Okay, the first merit I have to give cats is their ability to repel all kinds of critters. Take mice (and rats… shudders), if you have a feline friend in your home, chances are those small furry pests will avoid you. Ann if they do try to come into your home, your cat will probably end them – and deliver you their body as an offering. Weird, but damn efficient.

2. They don’t mind being left alone.

So with dogs, you can’t help but feel guilty when you leave for work in the morning. However, the cat is probably happy to see the back of you – purely because they really enjoy their own company. It is pretty comforting to know that they’re happy out just lounging around all day.

Cat Funny Cats GIF

3. They’re super playful.

Cats tend not to get the credit they deserve – especially when it comes to their playfulness. Cats LOVE messing around, playing with toys and all that good stuff.

4. But also love chilling out.

On the other end of the spectrum, cats love just laying around all day, relaxing! If you just want to sit on the couch all evening and have a good cuddle, then cats are the lads for you.

5. The purr. 

Sorry, but is there anything more relaxing than hearing your cats gentle purr? No. No there is not.

cats gatos GIF

6. That sweet litter box.

One of the major cat perks is that they can be trained to use a litter box. Rather than having to bring them outside every time they need the loo, they simply go in the box, and you clear out the box as you see fit. Simples.

7. They can mind themselves.

Many cat owners allow their furry friends to roam the streets, and give them accress to a cat door. There;s never any fear that they won’t return. Cats are very street wise, and know how to handle themselves.

8. They can be HIGHLY entertaining. 

Have you ever actually googles cat memes and videos? They’re actually GAS. So even if you don’t actually own a kitty, you cannot deny the fact that they’re freakin’ hilarious.

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Yes, you did read that heading correctly. 

Gone are the days of simple lip fillers and a cheeky boob job, apparently, because belly button plastic surgery is on the rise. 

That's right folks, people with innies and outties everywhere are getting their buttons transformed.

How though? WHY though? Let us explain. 

Darren Smith, a plastic surgeon in New York City, spoke to the gorgeous folks at Allure about the rise of the belly button procedures: "The belly button is a very important cosmetic feature of the stomach. I am seeing an increase in patient interest in belly button aesthetics."

So what goes on? 

Basically, it's exactly what you think! This type of surgery, known as umbilicoplasty, allows people to change the shape of their button – from an outtie to an innie, for example. 

The procedure can also repair your belly button after pregnancy or a piercing that went a bit wrong. 

 "People are also interested in restoring their belly button after pregnancy, abdominal surgeries, and after large amounts of weight loss," according to Melissa Doft, another New York based plastic surgeon. 

According to plastic surgeons, there are three main types of belly button-altering surgery: umbilicoplasty, umbilical hernia repair, and a classic tummy tuck.

An umbilicoplasty procedure changes the size and or shape of your navel. "Belly buttons that are 'too large' can be made smaller by removing extra belly button skin and tightening the bordering abdominal skin around the belly button."

belly dancing GIF

An umbilical hernia repair turns an innie out of an outtie. "This is a condition in which tissue, usually fat, protrudes through a small hole in the abdominal wall (comprised of connective tissue and the six-pack muscles) and makes the belly button bulge outward for a prominent 'outtie' appearance."

And with regards to tummy tucks, they usually come with naval procedures. "I see a lot of women who have had children who come in for a tummy tuck and this becomes part of the conversation."

There you have it now, the boom is back. 

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So last week we were introduced to the most magical Harry Potter Easter eggs ever. 

And this week, we're taking it up a notch – with the Internet's latest egg-shaped offering. 

Gin and tonic Easter eggs are here, and they genuinely sound divine. 

Finally an Easter Egg for grown ups (yes, we consider ourselves to be grown up, sort of).

Each Easter egg is a white chocolate, hand crafted egg flavoured with gin flavouring and lime tonic. Outrageous.

These divine handcrafted eggs are available on NotOnTheHighstreet for just a tenner – best money you'll ever spend. 

Not a gin fan? Weird. However worry not – the brand are also offering Strawberry and Prosecco Easter Eggs.

We may have to buy both – be rude not to like. 

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Irish international and Lenister back-rower Jamie Heaslip has announced his retirement from rugby on medical advice.

The 34-year-old has said he is ready for the next chapter of his life after a second back operation failed to produce the desired result in November of last year.

Jamie's international career has been filled with spectacular moments. Winning a 95 caps for Ireland, the number eight helped the team win three Six Nations titles, two Triple Crowns and a Grand Slam in 2009.

 

Time will get us all, but it's cornered me earlier than I hoped. Every professional sportsperson always hopes to be able leave their chosen sport on their terms but too often that’s not the case. I have had to take on board the medical advice that I have been given and after talking to Sheena and my family, I have taken the difficult decision to retire with immediate effect from playing rugby in order to ensure my future well being. I’m very proud to finish my career as a one club man having played amongst some of the best in the game, who are all like a family of brothers to me. My goal when I started my professional career 14 years ago was to leave the jerseys that I wore in a better place and I hope I have done that. Thank you to the IRFU, Leinster Rugby, all the coaches, medical staff,back room staff, sponsors, media, supporters and most importantly my wife, family , friends and fellow players for helping me to make my dreams come true. I’ve had the time of my life on and off the rugby pitch but now its time for the next chapter. Jamie

A post shared by Jamie Heaslip (@jamieheaslip) on

He was also part of the 2009 and 2013 Lions tours and was nominated for World Rugby’s Player of the Year in 2009 and 2016.

Speaking about his retirement, Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt said Jamie was an “intelligent and incredibly robust player.”

"Utterly professional, driven to succeed and a leader with the actions he delivered."

 

A post shared by Jamie Heaslip (@jamieheaslip) on

Meanwhile, Jamie and wife Sheena O'Buachalla recently announced they are expecting their first child together.

"My wife is expecting so it is an exciting time for us," he told the Irish Mail on Sunday.

While we'll miss seeing him on the pitch, we wish Jamie all the best for the next chapter in his life.

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It's no secret that we Irish just LOVE to complain.

Whether we're talking about the weather, moaning about the price of Dairy Milks or quietly questioning how Mary down the road was able to afford a brand new BMW – we'll always find something to give out about.

Begrudgery is just something that's in our blood, and judging by Twitter's reaction to last night's Room to Improve on RTÉ, that isn't going to change any time soon.

This week's instalment of the beloved home improvement programme saw Dermot Bannon travel to Fermoy, Co Cork to help Dave and Susie bring their family home up to spec with the addition of a gym, spa, sauna and separate entrance for the dog – you know yourself.

Being the nosey little sods that we are, viewers immediately began to question how on earth the couple were able to afford such luxuries.

In reality, the couple probably worked hard for to save their pennies – but do you think the Irish public would accept such logic? – Not a hope!

Check out some of our favourite reactions:

But, there were some people who were able to put the envy to one side and congratulate the couple on their achievements. 

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With Kate Middleton due in April, we are amping up for the arrival of the next royal baby!

Certainly every family has their own unique traditions when it comes to welcoming a new family member, and the Royal family is no different.

We always love learning more about the fascinating customs of the House of Windsor! Here are eight strange royal baby traditions:

1) They used to require a witness to verify the birth.

When you think about it, it really makes sense! The royal family used to require a witness to ensure a royal birth was actually taking place. The British Home Secretary stood outside the delivery room door for the births of Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret. The practice ceased after 1936, according to Mental Floss.

 

A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily) on

2) The birth is proclaimed on an easel in front of Buckingham Palace.

The document is on palace-headed paper and contains all the details of the child's birth, according to Hello! Magazine. The Royal family have announced births this way since 1837. Now, though, they also post to social media after the easel has been set out. Once the easel has been on display for 24 hours, it is removed.

4) A 62 gun salute fires at the Tower of London to celebrate the baby's arrival.

A basic salute is just 21 guns, but the arrival of a royal baby is no basic occasion! The 62 gun salute is reserved for 'special days', according to the Royal Household. The salute lasts for about 10 minutes.

5) Royal babies are given about three or four first names.

The Duke of Cambridge, for example, is named William Arthur Philip Louis and Prince Harry is Henry Charles Albert David.

6) The Queen must be one of the first people to hear about the birth.

Grannies need to know first! Queen Elizabeth II is informed of the happy news before the official birth announcement. William called her on a specially encrypted phone to inform her of Prince George's birth.

7) Non-royal grandparents were not allowed to have close relationships with their grandchildren.

Thankfully this is a custom that has changed with modern times, but in the past maternal grandparents were disregarded if they were not of royal lineage, according to Marie Claire.

8) Royal babies typically have about six godparents.

Prince William and Prince Harry each have six godparents, Time reports, while Prince George is lucky with seven godparents! Princess Charlotte was slightly shortchanged, with a mere five, according to Pop Sugar.

Did any of these facts surprise you, mums?

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We have been gifted with an exclusive, all-access pass to the front row of the Tommy Hilfiger show in Milan, and we're taking you along for the journey. 

Enjoy the show!

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Irish heart-throb Cillian Murphy is being tipped to be the next 007. 

The Cork native and star of the hit BBC drama series, Peaky Blinders, has seen a huge increase in the number of bets backing him to take over the role from Daniel Craig in recent months. 

At the end of last year, the actor was in with 125/1 shot of landing the role, however, those odds have since dropped dramatically and now stand at just 25/1. 

 All in all, 72 per cent of bets placed on the topic were in favour of Cillian. 

Perhaps they know something we don't? Or maybe it's just a lucky guess? – either way, no official confirmation has been given from Murphy or James Bond producers. 

His Peaky Blinders costar Tom Hardy is currently the favourite to take the role with odds of 3/1.

Although, if things keep going the way they're going, Cillian will be the odds-on favourite in no time. 

Should he land the role of a lifetime, he will be the eighth actor, and second hailing from the Emerald Isle, to portray the famous James Bond.

We would never have guessed the next 007 would be a Cork man, but hey, stranger things have happened. 

So, who's your money on? 

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Brace yourselves! – It's about to be bloody Baltic. 

Just when we thought the weather finally looking up, a fresh arctic blast is forecast to grip the entire country for five days next week.

Remember last year when Storm Ophelia pretty much shut the country down for a day – well, get ready for round two. Only this time we have snowstorms, plummeting temperatures, severe frosts to look forward to. 

According to Met Éireann, Tuesday to Saturday is expected to be "exceptionally cold" with "significant wind chill and severe frosts." – lovely! 

Temperatures will fall to as low as -10C in some places with daytime temperatures remaining below freezing. 

Are you having a laugh, Joanna? 

We've been told to stock up on essentials (Dairy Milk, Tayto, Gin and tonic – you know yourself) and prepare for possible school closures. 

But of course, as we well know, us Irish have a bit of a tendency to over exaggerate these types of things – Teresa Mannion we're looking at you – so only time will tell. 

But hey, maybe we're wrong. Maybe we'll all be telling our grandchildren about the big freeze of 2018, maybe it'll have its own slot on this year's Reeling in the Years? 

Either way, it's always wise to heed warnings and take care when driving in freezing temperatures – even if we are overreacting. 

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So, by this stage, we're guessing most people's New Year's resolutions have gone well a truly out the window. 

Whether you promised yourself you'd stop spending money on over-priced coffee, or committed to three yoga classes a week, there's a pretty good chance that all your good intentions faded once February came around. 

But never fear, because there's always time to get back on track and ASOS has launched a brand new fitness range to get you motivated once again. 

The collection, which follows the online retailer's "More Reasons to Move" launched earlier this year, aims to empower men and women of all ages, shapes, and sizes. 

The activewear comes in eye-catching colours and stylish prints and included everything from reflective-detailed jackets and T-shirts to all-in-one yoga outfits and leggings.

What's more, the items are made using seasonless technology and high-performance fabrics so you can get the most out of your fitness gear. 

One of the best things about the range it the large variety of customers it caters for. ASOS 4505 includes maternity items, as well as tall, petite and curve with sizes running from a UK 4 to 30.

Check out some of our favourite pieces below:

 

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