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Monthly Archives: March 2017

In this day and age, there's very few of us who aren't on social media.

Whether it's constantly checking Snapchat or updating your Instagram, it's fair to say a lot of us check our social media accounts daily.

Scratch that. A lot of us check our social media accounts hourly.

But is it ruining our friendships and making us lonely? I'm not so sure.

business, computer, device

A recent study carried out in the US claimed that we're on social media for at least two hours per day (which is probably fair), however, those two hours apparently double our chances of experiencing social isolation and low self-esteem.

When we're exposed to idealised representations of other people's lives, we feel envious and jealous, right?

And yeah, if one of your mates is living it up in New Zealand while you're slogging away at a 9-5 job, obviously you're going to wish you were on a sunny beach with a cocktail in hand.

But my point of view is; if we took social media away from the picture, and you met your friend for a coffee and she showed you pictures of her holiday, those envious feelings are still going to pop up.

apple, bag, client

The research, which was carried out in the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, is saying that social media is the root of our social isolation, but I really don't think that's entirely true.

Another study by Drexel University found social media to actually be a pretty positive platform for people who have low self-esteem.

Those who might not be as confident to speak out in social situations, can interact with people online, which in turn made them more vocal in their day to day lives.

Researchers investigated the 'depression' hashtag on Instagram, and what they actually found was pretty inspiring.

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"Emotional support and esteem support, which includes comments such as, 'you are strong and beautiful', were the most popular comments among the 'depression' hashtag," which is pretty refreshing.

Numerous bloggers and social influencers are now coming forward to say that their lives aren't what you see on social media. Those pictures and statuses are only highlighting the good points, and while it may seem like everything is prefect – they go through tough times as well.

None of us are flawless, and we all project the best images of ourselves on social media.

app store, apple, computer

"The emotional support of trying to cheer someone up and provide support in the post or comment space could be viewed as a type of cognitive intervention (i.e., trying to help the person overcome negative thinking by developing positive thinking)," the study explained.

I think that at first, social media was (and partly still is) a platform to show off and boast, but it's changing into a place where people are becoming more real about their day to day lives and their struggles.

We all need to stop being so naive that everyone else's life is perfect, because just like our own, it's not.

Social media may be an enhancer, but it's not the root cause of isolation or loneliness.

However, if you need support, never be afraid to speak out. Check out this website for if you need any advice or someone to talk to.

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A debate on the Tuam babies scandal was scheduled to kick off at 10am this morning, however the debate was delayed as not enough TDs showed up for the meeting. 

Oireachtas rules state that 20 of the 158 elected TDs must be present for a debate to occur, meaning the meeting started behind schedule as the Dáil waited for others to show up. 

Once the debate began, Children’s Minister Katherine Zappone issued an apology to the victims of the scandal, and told TDs she will consider including all residential Irish institutions in the current inquiry.

Twitter and Facebook users quickly became aware of the dwindled numbers of TDs present, and they definitely were not impressed by the government's percieved dismissive attitude towards the issue. 

Many Facebook users are demanding a list of the officials who did not show up to be published, so that they can officially complain to their elected representatives.

"Where can you see a list of those who did attend so we can email those from our constituency who are supposedly meant to be representing us who did not show up for this debate. I'm totally disgusted by this," said one. 

"What the hell needs to happen for them to turn up? A debate on cutting their expenses would have it jammed. Just furious."

"It's because they don't care! They don't care when it happened why would we think they care now! By the way they sleep very well at night in case anyone is interested," commented another outraged citizen,on a Facebook post about the debate.

"Aw well it's not as if it's water charges just dead babies, sure we wouldn't bother marching for that," said another. 

Katherine Zappone labelled the issue “a scandal of huge proportions.”

 

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Now don’t get us wrong: we don’t necessarily watch cooking channels on YouTube to learn how to make fancy dinners or crazy cakes – we just love the entertainment.

And we won't apologise for it, either.

If cooking shows float your boat, but complicated recipes aren't your thing, why not check out our favourite inspiration for whenever you just feel like drooling in front of your screen.

Donal Skehan

It would be impossible to not mention our beloved Donal Skehan.

Even though he recently moved to LA, the Irish food sensation remains our pride and joy. 

Sorted Food

These British guys are not only fun to watch, they are also really relatable and we feel like if they can do it, we can too! 

Cupcake Gemma

The creme of the buttercream!

When this British pastry extraordinaire teaches us how to make a breathtaking ombre cake, we almost believe we can do it. 

Hervé Cuisine

If you think French cooking is all fancy and nervewracking, have a look at Hervé Cuisine. From his Parisian kitchen, this cool guy cooks all sorts of sweet and savoury recipes, and makes it all look really easy-peasy.

And with English subtitles available, you don’t even have to pretend you remember anything from your Leaving Cert oral.

Everyday Food

Everyday Food editor, Sarah Carey, always comes up with easy-to-follow recipes that make us go “Defo could do this!”.

We particularly love the series called Kitchen Conundrums with Thomas Joseph, which breaks down all the crazy science behind cooking and baking. 

JessBeautician

As the name of her channel suggests it, Jess was primarily a beauty therapist but her food videos are so brilliant we are seriously considering going vegan. 

Well, you know, kinda…

MyCupcakeAddiction

If you have never heard of Elise Strachan, the genius mind behind MyCupcakeAddiction, prepare yourself to be seriously mind-blown.

This Aussie lady makes the most creative and colourful cakes that literally defy gravity. 

Bigger Bolder Baking
 
Gemma Stafford is an Irish professionally trained chef who now lives under the Santa Monica sun, in California.

Her recipes are mouth-watering and always have this wow factor that makes us seriously drool…

Peaceful Cuisine

Ryoya Takashima makes cooking videos that don’t use music and gives us true ASMR feel.

If you ever have a stress rush during the day, tune into his channel and enjoy the quietness of this Japanese kitchen…

Food Tube

Jamie Oliver doesn't need an introduction and his channel, featuring some brilliant guests, needs to be in our faves. 

 

 

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As the days are finally growing longer, and the clouds are now making way for the sun, it's time to say bye to woolly hats and hello S/S styles.

RI Plus has just launched its latest collection throughout Ireland and online, and we have to say, we're loving the cool and classic style the fashion power house has gone down.

With a nod to western trends, bold prints, and playful patterns, here are our top picks from the RI Plus SS17 line:

Plus Ashley ripped boyfriend jeans – €55

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Plus pink floral top – €45

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Plus black floral culotte jumpsuit – €65

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Plus red bardot maxi dress – €45

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Plus black and white check slip – €45

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Happy shopping ladies!

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We all get wrapped up in our favourite TV shows from time to time and wish that we could just lead all the characters in the right direction.

Unfortunately, that never happens, but with technology that Netflix is looking into, we might not be that far off from choosing our own TV show endings.

According to The Daily Mail, Netflix is reportedly looking into how to develop the user experience.

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It wants to allow viewers to have full interactive control of the shows they like, and let users guide the narrative the way they want it.

A source told the publication, "We're doing work on branch narratives so you are actually making choices as you watch.

"All the content will be there, and then people will have to get through it in different ways. We'll see how it plays out. It's an experiment."

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The insider added, "We'll see if it gets much success. For creators, it's new territory."

It's not yet known whether the interactive experience will be rolled out on existing shows or if totally new ones will have to be commissioned, but we have to say, it'll be interesting to see how this plays out.

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Festival season is just around the corner, and Sea Sessions has just revealed their day-to-day line-up.

The chilled festival on Bundoran Beach released some of their line-up a few months back, but now the exact order of their headliners has been announced. 

Image result for music festival funny

Sigma will DJ on the main stage on Friday, June 23, to kick off the festival with a buzz.

The Coronas will then head up the show on Saturday, June 24.

Rounding off the weekend is Primal Scream, who will close the festival on Sunday, June 25. 

The acts will be joined by fellow musicians All Tvvins,Foy Vance, Otherkin, Little Hours, Mr Scruff and Wyvern Lingo throughout the weekend. 

Tickets are currently available, with prices starting at €99.90 for three days or €124.90 for four nights camping.

Dust off those flower crowns…

Feature: Sea Sessions

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Look, it's far from easy to admit that your favourite way to unwind is by settling yourself in front of a grisly true crime documentary, but the sense of liberation that comes with finally doing it is fairly spectacular.

Yes, it's weird, yes it's mildly disturbing and yes, you've definitely wondered whether your macabre pastime would go against you if you ever found yourself in front of a judge, but hey you like what you like, and you no longer care who knows it.

And while most friends and family struggle to understand your fascination with the darkest recesses of the human psyche, you firmly believe your obsession with true crime will stand to you at some point in the future.

Here are just 13 things you'll know if true crime documentaries are your go-to watch.

1. You have, at times, surprised yourself by knowing the details of a murder which took place in Milwaukee in 1986.

Chances are you've stumbled upon a few documentaries detailing the same case, and you can't help it if the timeline of events has seared itself into your memory, right?

"Oh, I know this one! Your man from down the road did it, but framed his mate."

2. You generally can't stop yourself from researching everything about cases which piqued your attention.

When it comes to the more obscure cases, you end up feeling like an investigative journalist trawling the archives for more information on some homicidal lunatic from the States.

"There's very little on him on Wiki, but this local paper from small-town Idaho knows what's up. I should beef up this guy's online presence."

3. You have heard yourself rationalising your interest by leaning on the forensic side of things.

Throwing phrases like 'development in DNA testing' and 'cold case files' makes your fascination with the life and times of a serial killer sound a little more palatable.

"It's not that odd, really. I mostly focus on the police work involved."

4. You have had to stop yourself from sharing the more obscure details of a case for fear your colleagues will begin questioning your actions.

Everyone in the office watched How To Make a Murderer, but only you decided to spend hours online searching for that one piece of evidence that would set Steven Avery free.

"I'm telling you, lads. If someone would just listen to me."

5. You hate to admit it, but you actually have favourite true crime cases.

You know how despicable that sounds, but there are some serial killer cases which appeal to you more than others.

"I don't know what it is, but it was the perfect storyline… and yes, I know it's true and I'm going to hell."

6. You get a frisson of excitement when you spot a link before the narrator reveals the twist.

You get an inkling you're onto something, and can't help but throw it out there lest anyone think you're losing your touch.

"Hey, have you a second to talk? So, I was watching one of my docs, and I had the murderer in the frame before the first ad-break. Hello?"

7. You curse your fascination when you find yourself alone in certain situations.

It's all well and good when you're cosied up at home, but the moment you're by yourself your mind wanders to the unsolved murder of a person in Wyoming in 1977.

"Oh my God. I'm, literally going to star in my own murder doc."

8. Your most-listened to podcasts are true crime ones, and you can't help but imagine yourself behind that mike.

Secretly, you know that your fascination with crime would make for a compelling podcast, but your damn day job keeps getting in the way.

"Nobody would be able to tell the story of Ted Bundy like I would."

9.You feel awkward when you have to admit that while yes, you adore true crime, it's generally reserved for the more mysterious and grisly.

Bank heists and great train robberies don't exactly do it for you.

"Yeah, I know it happened in real life, but unfortunately I don't care right now."

10. You have endured comments that you're like those women who fall in love with death row prisoners.

While you're more than willing to put up with light mockery, that is one accusation you won't accept.

"I'm sorry, you've taken it too far this time."

11. Your friends consider you an oracle on all things crime-related.

You've had to suppress a surge of pride when friends come to you for the details on the latest high-profile crime case.

"Jesus, it's like they think I have an inside scoop! I'm literally famous."

12. You have urged your friends to join you in your pastime, but they struggle to share your enthusiasm.

They generally like to laugh during TV binges, and don't understand your desire to start goggle-eyed at court proceedings during a high-profile case from 1995.

"Give it a shot. You won't look back."

13. Secretly you know that if someone else actually enjoyed true crime as much as you, you'd be slightly alarmed.

But you're normal… you don't know that THEY are.

"I use it to turn off… they might use to switch on!"

 

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Penneys obsession with pink isn't showing any signs of stopping.

The bargain high street store has just dropped a whole new selection of rose-tinted pieces that we absolutely love. 

The brand is nailing one of this seasons biggest trends, with pink being one of the most stylish colours to don as we move into summer.

Biker jacket, €14.00

The dreamy new pieces start landing in stores this month, and one piece we are dying to get our hands on is this bubble-gum pink biker jacket.

The best part about this summer trophy piece is the price, it comes in at an unbelievable €14.00. Yes, really. 

Bodysuits, €5.00 each

These bodies are perfect for painting with high waisted jeans and boots for a hint of summer holiday style that's perfectly spring appropriate. 

Bodies are super versatile and comfortable, so we will be stocking up for summer, and at five quid a pop, it's hard to go wrong.  

Jumpers, €10.00 each

We love nothing more than a comfy jumper, and while there is still a distinct wintry breeze lingering, we'll take one in every colour.

Tucked into mom jeans or layered over a work shirt, these cosy knits are right up our alley. 

Trousers €15.00, Dungarees, €21.00

Integrating a pop of pink into your work wardrobe won't be hard with these powerful pink trousers.

Amd as for keeping pink festival chic? These dungarees are ready for a summer of glamping while listening to your favourite bands.

Team with a band T-shirt and chunky boots for a hint of edge, or opt for a white shirt and loafers to make the look office-worthy. 

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If you suffer from serious nail envy, you’re not alone.

While you may rock a stunning manicure after investing in a professional treatment, your nails probably leave a lot to be desired when left to their own devices, right?

It’s easy to assume that the friend or co-worker with the stunning hands regularly treats herself to salon treatments, but it’s actually much more likely that she makes a habit of caring for her own nails from the comfort of her own home.

When it comes to enviable hands, regular DIY treatments are the holy grail of nail care.

And here, ladies, are just nine things every woman with incredible nails does on the regular.

1. Wears gloves

Protecting your hands from the elements is vital if you want to avoid dry or chapped skin.

Our hands take a real battering on a daily basis, so ensuring they’re wrapped up and warm is the first step in properly caring for them.

2. Moisturises

You can’t moisturise enough when it comes to your hands, and slapping on the odd drop every now and again just won’t cut it if you want hands worthy of a photoshoot.

Like brushing your teeth, you should moisturise your hands at least twice a day, but there’s nothing to prevent you from topping it up throughout the day.

3. Removes old polish

Many of us are guilty of painting over old nail polish instead of starting from scratch, but the ladies with the truly stunning nails know this is never the way to go.

Properly removing nail polish is so important as it gives your nails time to breathe, and provides you with the perfect platform for a brand-new treatment.

4. Invests in the right products

If you want a salon-finish without the price tag, you need to do your homework on the best products for at-home manicures.

Thankfully, Sally Hansen have an incredible array of products which protect, condition and strengthen the nails without breaking the bank.

5. Considers cuticles

No matter how on point your polish game is, raggy cuticles are a dead giveaway that you’re a mere novice when it comes to nailcare.

Tend to your cuticles after the shower as they will be at their softest, apply oil and gently push them back with the help of a cuticle stick

6. Files (the right way)

Filing back and forth is a massive no-no when it comes to caring for your hands as it splits and ultimately weakens the nails.

You need to file in one direction to prevent damage using the ‘rough grit’ side of the emery board before finishing off with the ‘fine grit’ side.

7. Uses a Base Coat

Unless you want discoloured fingernails, it’s vital you always use a base coat before applying your desired colour.

Not only does it act as a barrier, it actually aids the application of your main colour and results in a smoother texture.

8. Opts for multiple thin coats

If you’re guilty of slapping on a thick layer of polish in an effort to get the job done quicker, you need to stop now.

Multiple thin layers is your only man when it comes to a salon-quality manicure.

9. Has patience

You can’t expect a salon-quality finish if you only invest five minutes in your at-home job, can you?

Like the professionals, you need to take your time on the treatment, and ensure you’ve ticked off each step before moving on to the next.

When it comes to nail care, Sally Hansen’s wide range of products guarantees a salon-quality finish … at a snip of the price.

From treatments to polishes, the range is exactly what you need when you want to make nailcare a priority without breaking the bank.

You can find out more information, here.

Available in pharmacy and grocery stores nationwide with prices ranging from €6.99 to €10.99.

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After the #Strike4Repeal march in Dublin City yesterday, the Rubberbandits have expressed concern on celebrating International Men's Day.

The lads expressed their burden to the public, saying the men are vulnerable too, and we all need to realise that, and grow from it.

They opened their inspirational message with, "So many lads on twitter yesterday saying 'What about international Mens day?'. There is one, it's November 19th. But we don't celebrate it and no one seems to know about it(sic).

Image result for the rubber bandits

"We should though, and we should celebrate it more. And not in a "Grrr steaks, blowjobs, fighting and chopping wood" way which are defense mechanisms we use when it looks like either ourselves or another lad might cry or feel helpless. 

"Use international mens day, to address that we've been raised as men to not express or understand emotion, as a result of shit gender roles (sic). 

"And that this inability to express might be one of the cornerstones behind the disproportionately high rates of male suicide, as well as social and economic craic. 

"Lets eradicate the idea that a man expressing vulnerability equates to 'having a vagina'. If I didn't go to counselling when I was younger, and learn to understand and express things like feelings of weakness, low self esteem and fear of crying then I wouldn't be who I am today."

They then pleaded with their audience to "embrace vulnerability, accept that it exists in you, then you'll become the master of it. It doesn't pull your strings on the sly in the background.

"Ignore it, and you become it's puppet. It's hard work. Facing up to your own inner vulnerability as a Man feels very threatening, take notice of it right now if you're reading this.

"An Adult, Male or Female should strive for two things. To have high self esteem, and to be assertive (sic)."

They ended their Facebook post with a message to everyone; we always need to keep on top of ourselves; our minds, bodies and souls.

"That's it. That's the most we should ever ask of ourselves. And it's not a state that you reach. It's a continual lifestyle choice that you work on every day.

"Just like exercise and healthy eating. We'll fall off the wagon every so often, and that's grand. Embracing our innate fallibility is also part of this."

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We're in for a heavy-hitting Late Late Show tomorrow night, ladies.

After the news of the Tuam Mother and Baby scandal broke earlier this week, the woman who exposed the truth will be sitting on the couch with Ryan Tubridy, explaining why she persisted on this story coming to light.

Catherine will talk about her determination, as well as the immense pressure she fought from people who doubted her claims.

Image result for catherine corless

Along with Ms Corless, a number of survivors will also join Ryan to talk about their past in the Mother and Baby homes.

Tubbers will then be joined by Ted Walsh, who is one of Ireland's most successful horse trainers.

With Irish racing fans preparing for Cheltenham, Ted will be talking all about his career and will give viewers some hints and tips for the upcoming festival.

Image result for ted walsh

Later, participants who took part in a new documentary called Autism And Me, Adam Harris, Hughie Malone and Niamh Biddulph, will take to the Late Late couch, followed by Karen Elliffe, Danielle Stewart and Ashleigh Fennell, who will talk about living and working in rural Ireland.

You can catch The Late Late Show tomorrow night on RTÉ One at 9.35pm.

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Go on, J-Lo!

Jennifer Lopez is reportedly dating baseball star Alex “A-Rod” Rodriguez.

 

A post shared by Jennifer Lopez (@jlo) on

The former New York Yankees baseball player is said to have wooed J-Lo while they spent time in Las Vegas recently. 

The news comes just weeks after the mother-of-two was spotted cosying up to singer Drake on Instagram. 

A source told Us Weekly in February that the rapper and Jennifer's romance had “died down a bit” after two months together.

 

A post shared by Alex Rodriguez (@arod) on

Now, the only problem is, what on earth are we going to call the latest Hollywood it-couple?

J-Rod or A-Lo?

We sense a major Twitter debate happening over this one. 

 

 

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