HomeArchives2018March

Monthly Archives: March 2018

Every now and again, a Twitter thread comes along that forces us into a loud fit of snort laughing while sitting beside a stranger on a packed commuter bus. 

This my friends, is one of those. 

Taking to the social network site, Twitter user Dan McDaid, hypothetically speaking, shared that if his last text message was to be written on his gravestone, it would read "I'll be up shortly" – which is most both optimistic and creepy in equal measures. 

He then asked his followers to reveal there last text messages, and well, the results were hilarious to say the least. 

Go on, give it a go! 

In a rather sombre twist mine reads, "my heart just broke". 

For the record, I was referring to a sad post I saw on Facebook, and not a serious medical problem – though it fits quite nicely. 

Trending

Job interviews are enough to send even the most laid-back and breezy folk into a fit of nervous sweats. 

No matter how well prepared and qualified you may be, there's always a fear that you'll say or do something that'll ultimately ruin your chances of landing the position and leave you questioning your ability to function as a fully fledged human.

Sure, on paper it all sounds pretty simple – make eye contact, be polite, shake hands, and ask questions. But what are the things we should avoid doing in order to convince our potential new employers that we're right for the role? 

Well, jobs website Simply Hired carried out a survey of 850 hiring managers to find out just that. 

Rather unsurprisingly, results showed that arriving late was the number one interview no no. 

Explain just how detrimental tardiness can be, and what to run if you find yourself running late, recruiter Jamie Hichens told Glassdoor:

“Being late to an interview with no explanation or without emailing or calling ahead to say they are running late. This one will knock out  99% of interviewees."

“At the very least, if you’re running late, call and offer an ETA, an explanation, or an offer to reschedule. And remember to apologise for the inconvenience.”

Next came on the list of interview deal-breakers came whining at 92 per cent, followed closely by lack of preparation at 89 per cent. 

Here's the full list: 

1. Arriving to an interview late (93 per cent)

2. Whining (92 per cent)

3. Showing lack of preparation (89 per cent)

4. Criticising a former boss (88 per cent)

5. Criticising a former company (87 per cent)

6. Making grammar of spelling mistakes in a covering letter (86 per cent)

7. Using poor grammar in an interview (84 per cent)

8. Having unrealistic compensation requirements (84 per cent)

9. Being underqualified (80 per cent)

10. Answering questions incorrectly (77 per cent)

So, if you're on the hunt for a new job, try to avoid doing any of the above at all costs. The most important thing is to be yourself and remember that you wouldn't have landed the interview if they didn't think you have what it takes. 

Trending

Easter is just around the corner, and with supermarket shelves packed full of delicious goodies, it's safe to say our chocolate cravings are getting a little out of control. 

From golden bunnies to scrumptious eggs, we're gearing up for the year's biggest cheat day, so you can only imagine our delight when we discovered that one of our favourite brands has launched a WHITE chocolate version of it's best selling bar. 

Famous for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and oh-so creamy flavour, Galaxy chocolate is without a doubt one of our all-time favourite treats.  And now, fans of the much-loved brand will be delighted to know that they no-longer have to look elsewhere to get their white chocolate fix. 

We're guessing it's comparable to the old Cadbury Dream bars – which are long over-due a comeback (just saying). 

The website reads: "Created to instantly melt in your mouth, the Galaxy White Chocolate is silk, smooth and deliciously creamy.

"Galaxy White Chocolate is an indulgent treat that can be enjoyed with friends and family and a great way to get your sugar fix for the day. It also is perfect partner for some 'me-time indulgence'. Undivide your attention.

"Enjoy pure chocolate passion with Galaxy White …"

However, there's a catch. 

It seems the wonderfully creamy white chocolate is only available in the United Arab Emirates at the moment, meaning you'll need to travel over 7,000 km to get your hands on it. 

*sigh*

No word as to whether it'll be available in Ireland any time soon, but given that we're a nation full of chocolate-lovers, we're hoping that the head honchos over at Galaxy realise they're missing a huge opportunity by not stocking it here. 

In the mean time, you'll need to beg your globe-trotting friends to bring you back a few bars – though we can't guarantee they won't be eaten before the plane lands. 

Trending

 

There are only a handful of weeks to go until Khloé Kardashian becomes a mum. In honour of her baby girls arrival, Khloé had the most glamorous baby shower over the weekend.

In true Kardashian style, the reality star and soon-to-be mum posted plenty of snaps from the celebration.

Khloé wrote, “I had the most unbelievable baby shower – we felt so much love! So grateful to be surrounded by a beautiful support system,” alongside a photo of her and Kourtney.

 

A post shared by Khloé (@khloekardashian) on

Kris Jenner attended the special event, as well as Kylie Jenner– who welomed her first child, Stormi, in February. Kendall Jenner and Kim Kardashian also celebrate with Khloé at the lavish event.

Of course, Khloé made sure that they celebrated in style with the most OTT decorations. Pink carnations hung from the ceiling, the tables were full of sweet treats including three unicorn cakes, the floor was covered in pastel pink balloons and a neon ‘‘Baby Thompson’ sign, which Kris Jenner designed.

 

#khloebabyshower ….this room is heaven @jeffleatham !!!!! #love

A post shared by Kris Jenner (@krisjenner) on

And to top it all off the mum-to-be had two giant elephant statues at the centre of the event.

Khloé recently revealed that she was expecting a baby girl during an episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians. The 33-year-old admitted that she was stunned to find out that she was having a girl.

 

 

However, she knows her little girl will be well looked after by her cousins- Chicago West and Stormi Webster.

She wrote, “I am now so excited my daughter will have forever best friends with Chicago and Stormi!! God is great!!! Thank you, Lord, for our princess.”
Khloé is due to give birth to her little girl in a matter of weeks – and so the Kardashian baby-watch starts once again. 

Trending

Mum, mam, mom, mammy, super woman, life-giver, best find, soulmate  – whatever you call your dear mother, it's time to celebrate all the wonderful wisdom she has passed down through the years, 

She might drive you absolutely crazy at times, but at the end of the day, she only wants what's best for you – and hey, chances are you put her through hell when you were a teenager, so you probably deserve it!

Truth be told, mothers are actually some of the most kind, caring and genius people on the planet, and whether we'd like to admit it or not, we wouldn't be the people  were are today without their help and guidance. 

In fact, new research from One4all has shown that some of the most valued things we have ever received come from our mums or the mother figures in our lives. 

A massive 96 per cent of respondents said they noticed similarities between themselves and their mothers, however, it seems men and women inherit slightly different attributes. 35 per cent of women said its having the same values that make them most alike, while 34 per cent of men said they shared their mother's temperament. 

Interestingly, the majority of men said they felt closest to their mother when they were a child, while more women admitted their mother-daughter relationship peaked during their thirties. 

When times get tough, your mother will always be there to offer a hot cup of tea and shoulder to cry on, so it's hardly surprising that one third of those surveyed agreed that a great piece of advice is the most valuable thing they've ever received from their mum. 

What's more, 90 per cent say they would consider their mum or mother figure to be a role model in their lives. 

When the tables are turned, 17% of Irish adults say they would now most like their mum or mother figure to admire their own strength, along with their outlook on life (16%) and their parenting skills (12%).

Commenting on the survey findings Aoife Davey, Group Marketing Manager at One4all Ireland, said: “From a sentimental piece of jewellery or a great piece of advice, to an inherited facial feature or their sense of style, it’s safe to say the leading ladies in our lives have had an impact on us from the very beginning. It’s clear to see that our mothers and mother figures ultimately shape the people and parents we become."

"We absolutely believe that mothers should be celebrated every day but extending a token of appreciation on Mother’s Day ensures our Mamas that we know how lucky we are to have them."

Trending

The formidable Irish Mammy – a legend in her own right and the best at giving advice and dishing out the ultimate one-liners. Her main concerns are the weather, tea, whether the immersion was turned off and what Bridie next-door neighbour is getting up to.

She’s there to make us copious amounts of tea that will fix any problem and fill us boiled 7up when we’re under the weather.

She’s come out with some gas statements over the years and seeing as Mother’s Day is approaching Twitter is looking back at some of the funniest moments Tweeted using #IrishMammy

When you’re feeling sad and need some reassurance your Mammy will swoop in with the comforting statement “What’s for you won’t pass you by.”  Once your Mammy says this it fixes all your problems and gives you hope when you feeling a bit down.

 

You arrive home from school starving and raid the press only to find good biscuits hidden behind the never-ending box of weetabix. Then just as you’re about to open the lovely bikkies, Mammy notices and shouts “Those biscuits are for the visitors at the weekend!” and you’re busted.

When we got that bit older and began to go out more with our friends just, as we were about to leave Mammy would pipe up and say “Oh, you’re off gallivanting again I suppose! But sure isn’t it well for ye!” But she always has your back at the same time…

Your Mammy always knows best and the minute you walk into the house with your jacket still on she’ll tell you to “Take off your coat or it’ll be of no use to you when you go outside love.” The house is freezing and you reluctantly take it off because you don’t want to upset your Mother. And home is a very hard place to leave…

Despite all the advice and nagging the Irish Mammy is a comfort and reminder that home is always there no matter what. We love our Mammies, we treasure them, their funny texts and sayings, and them just being themselves.

Let’s celebrate the brilliant uniqueness that is the #IrishMammy this Mother’s Day by sharing your funniest #IrishMammyMoments

Trending

This week, we celebrated International Women’s Day. We sang the praises of the most courageous and important women the world has ever seen, from Hillary Clinton to Maya Angelou. However, this week not only do we celebrate women, we celebrate mums.

I actually find it difficult to put into words just how much I appreciate my amazing mother. She brought me in to this world (without any painkillers, FYI), she fed me, clothed me and washed me. She cared for me when I was ill, held me when I was sad, and gave out when I was being an arsehole (teenagers, eh?).

However, I’m now 26, and frankly, very little has changed. The woman still provides me with food on the regular, buys me clothes when I’m stuck and minds me when I’m sick – I’m a big baby when I’m under the weather.

Anyway, my point is that they never stop being your mum, no matter how old you get.

I look at my mum, with my granny, and they still very much share a bond that only a mother and daughter could, despite the fact that my granny is 84 and suffering from memory loss. She’s still my mum’s best friend, and they still have those little spats that only a mum and daughter can have.

‘You’re not wearing that,are you?’ will still come out of my grandmother’s mouth on Christmas Day, when my mum comes downstairs rocking a dress she doesn’t approve of. And my mum will snap back with a mumbled ‘p*ss off’ – because that’s what we do. However, despite the little fights, my mum looks after my granny with respect and love (and a bit of craic along the way), something I am constantly in awe of.

It is a relationship like no other, a daughter and a mum. They can be your worst enemy one minute, and your closest friend the next. For me, it’s extra special, as I don’t have any sisters (I do have one lovely, annoying brother though.) So, as female influences go, my mother is my one and only. And she is more than enough, let me tell you.

I have inherited good skin, a decent bit of height and a cracking set of teeth (what did you think I was going to say? Filth). However, physical attributes aside, I am the person I am today because of my mum.

She taught me to be strong, and to ignore people’s bullshit. She taught me to be kind, and to treat everyone I meet with respect – ‘because you never know when you’ll meet them again’. She was dead right.

She has taught me how to enjoy life. She has pushed me to do things that I didn’t want to do, like moving abroad, job applications and joining the gym (trust me, I resisted that one). My music tastes, my love of food, my wanderlust, and my killer sarcasm – all of these things are down to my amazing mum.

I could continue for HOURS about all the things I’m thankful for, but ultimately, I am simply thankful for her.

Every minute, every day and every year that I’ve called her mum. I know how lucky I am, trust me. She's my best friend, and my soul mate. 

So, for tomorrow, I'm encouraging you all to tell your mums how much you love them, and how much you appreciate everything they do. 

And to my mum – you are the greatest person I know, and I love you more than anything! 

Happy Mother's Day! 

Trending

Sky Sports presenter Simon Thomas tragically lost his wife Gemma in November last year three days after she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). She was only 40 years old.

On International Women's Day, the father-of-one decided to pay tribute to the woman who means so very much to him, their young son Ethan, and countless others.

The 45-year-old wrote on Twitter and Instagram, "On #IWD2018 we miss this wonderful woman so much. Kind, patient, compassionate, loving and a wonderful mum.

"A woman who stood in the breach for those around her who were less fortunate than her and needed help. The hole she’s left in our lives is immeasurable."

He also shared a sweet photo of Gemma kissing Ethan, who is about eight years old.

Simon's followers on social media sent messages of sympathy and hope in response.

"This is overwhelmingly heartbreaking," one Insta user shared, "God love him and his beautiful mummy."

"Captured the love she had for Ethan and he had for his mummy brilliantly," another commented, "Forever in your hearts."

"Such a wonderfully beautiful picture, it says so much… gave me a lump in my throat… sending you all love and hugs," a follower wrote.

One person said that Gemma's story inspired them to become a stem cell donor for those suffering from blood cancer.

"I don’t know if this can help treat AML but I hope to be a match for someone," Twitter user Bridget shared.

"Bridget you're amazing," Simon replied, "Thank you x"

Our hearts go out to Simon, Ethan, and everyone who has lost an important woman in their life.

Trending

Well, this is the most sexist thing we've heard in a while.

A new Abertay University study has claimed that women with ‘heavy’ make-up are less likely to be seen as good leaders.

The study showed participants various face-pairs of women, one with make-up applied for a night out and one without.

They were asked to choose which one of the two faces they felt would make a better leader – and they chose less makeup.

The results revealed that both men and women viewed women more negatively as a leader if she was wearing more of makeup.

Jesus lads, is nothing sacred?

Dr Christopher Watkins of Abertay’s School of Psychology led the study.

He discussed the results, claiming that: “This research follows previous work in this area, which suggests that wearing makeup enhances how dominant a woman looks."

“While the previous findings suggest that we are inclined to show some deference to a woman with a good looking face, our new research suggests that makeup does not enhance a woman’s dominance by benefiting how we evaluate her in a leadership role.

“This work is a good example of the diverse and interesting research ongoing within the Division of Psychology.”

Yeah, doesn't make it any less annoying though. 

Anyway, if you need us, we'll be the women smothered in makeup ruling the world. 

K, bye.

Trending

Are any of you gorgeous humans MAJOR Disney fans? Because I bloody am. 

Which is exactly why I am beyond excited by the latest expansion announcement by Disneyland Paris.

The Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company (and genuine hero) Robert A. Iger announced plans for a 2 billion euro, multi-year expansion for Disneyland Paris.

The new development will include a transformation of the Walt Disney Studios Park, adding three new areas that are based on Marvel, Frozen and Star Wars, along with multiple new attractions and live entertainment experiences.

CAN YOU DEAL?

According to a press release by Disney, the expansion plan is one of the "most ambitious development projects at Disneyland Paris since its opening in 1992 and underscores the Company’s commitment to the long-term success of the resort as Disney’s brand beacon in Europe."

Robert A. Iger stated: “We’re very excited about the future of Disneyland Paris and continue to invest in its long-term success."

"The resort is already the leading tourist destination in Europe, and the transformative expansion we announced today will add even more of our beloved characters and unparalleled storytelling to create new lands, attractions and entertainment that further elevate the guest experience and drive new opportunities for tourism in this dynamic region.”

The multi-year development will roll out in phases beginning in 2021, significantly expanding the Walt Disney Studios Park. In addition to the three new areas, the creative vision includes a new lake, which will be the focal point for entertainment experiences and will also connect each of the new park areas.

So we've a while to wait, but holy moly, it will be worth it! 

Trending

Last week, the world lost the wonderful Emma Hannigan, who was an inspiration to people all over the world. 

Emma discovered that she was a carrier of the BRCA gene in 2005, and bravely battled cancer 10 times in a 12 year period. 

Sadly she lost her battle, but she was a massive supporter of cancer awareness charities.

And while we all know that the BRCA gene is a bad thing, we still don't really know what it is exactly. 

So, with the beautiful Emma in mind, we decided to do some research, and spread some awareness. 

Firstly, what exactly is the BRCA gene? 

According to cancer.ie, 'the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are inherited in a particular manner, which means that if a person has a mutation present in the gene, their offspring have a 50% chance of inheriting it.'

'Women who have a mutation in either of these genes have a 50–85% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer and a 10–40% lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer. If either one of these mutations are found it carries an increased risk of a second breast cancer.'

What kind of family history is relevant to this gene?

Before I say anything, it is important not to panic if you identify with any of these family connections. If you're worried, call your GP nad go from there. 

It is important to note that not every person with breast cancer needs genetic testing. Individuals are tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation based on their genetic risk that assesses personal and family history factors, such as the following: 

  • Breast cancer diagnosed before age 50
  • Cancer in both breasts in the same woman
  • Multiple breast cancers in the same woman
  • Both breast and ovarian cancers in either the same woman or the same family
  • Two or more primary types of BRCA1- or BRCA2-related cancers in a single family member
  • Male breast cancer

If your family history is suggestive of a possible BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, the best thing to do is first test the family member with the known breast cancer. If that person is found to have a BRCA mutation, then other family members should consider genetic testing to figure out their potential risk for breast and ovarian cancer.

If I am a carrier of the gene, what do I do? 

If you are diagnosed with the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, there are measures you can take to reduce your risk of breast and ovarian cancer, such as:

Screening for breast cancer:

  • Observe your breast for changes, starting at age 18
  • Have a clinical breast exam performed by your doctor or nurse every 6 to 12 months starting at age 25
  • Have a screening breast MRI annually, starting at age 25 or 30
  • Consider a 3D tomosynthesis mammogram

Reducing breast cancer risk:

  • Many women with the BRCA gene get a double mastectomy, which will reduce the chances of getting breast cancer. 
  • Consider risk-reduction medications.

Reducing ovarian cancer risk:

  • Much like the breasts, many carriers remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes at the end of childbearing age.
  • Annually screen for ovarian cancer with the use of blood test CA-125, and transvaginal ultrasound if recommended by your doctor, starting at age 30
Trending

Congratulations are in order! Hugh Grant and his girlfriend Anna Eberstein have recently welcomed a new addition to their family.

The 57-year-old and his TV producer girlfriend are already parents to five-year-old John Mungo and another child, born in December 2015.

As well, the Notting Hill star shares six-year-old Tabitha and four-year-old Felix with ex Tinglan Hong.

Elizabeth Hurley spilt the beans on his and Anna's youngest child.

 

A post shared by Paddington Bear (@paddingtonbear) on

Speaking on E!'s Daily Pop, Elizabeth said of the Paddington 2 actor, "I'm very lucky that 31 years into our friendship, he's still my best friend in the world. He's a really great guy.

"I see him a lot; I speak to him a lot. You know, he's now a father of five; he has five kids and he's a great dad. Yeah, he will remain my best friend for life."

The actress, also an ex of Hugh's, shared more about the newborn on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen.

"He had another one last week. He has five," the 52-year-old said of the Love Actually actor.

"He was over 50 when he spawned them all! He's an enchanting dad – really, really sweet. Having these kids has transformed him from a very miserable person into a fairly miserable person. It's improved him. He's gone up the scale."

Congrats to Anna and Hugh on their growing family!

Trending