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Yearly Archives: 2018

Southsiders – get ready to weep.

The construction of the Metro could reportedly halt Luas Green Line services between Harcourt and Sandyford for anywhere between 18 to 24 months.

Michael McDowell, former Tanaiste and leader of the Progressive Democrats party made the claim in his weekly column in the Sunday Business Post about the stoppage.

Subscription readers of the Sunday Business Post also learnt from Mr McDowell, that every portion of the Luas Green Line would have to undergo a rebuild of their platforms to elevate them.

This comes as the National Transport Authority plans to use high floor metro trains. 

"This means, in turn, that Luas-type trams will never again be able to operate on that portion of the line," wrote Mr McDowell. 

The proposed Metro for the Dublin area would run from Swords to Sandyford, the date of completion or the start of the building has not yet been made public. 

Before construction has even commenced, the Metro has caused controversy.

Player Jonny Cooper from a Dublin GAA club, Na Fianna took to Twitter to express how the proposed plans would impact their community. 

This isn't the first time former Tanaiste, McDowell has had qualms with the "monster" Metrolink. 

In an April blog, he penned how "we could build between seven and ten surface Luas lines," with the funding for the new Metro.

"Areas such as Glasnevin, Rathfarnham, Coolock, Ballymun, Lucan, Churchtown, Sallynoggin, Deans Grange, Clonsilla, and Palmerstown could be given a Luas tram service as successful and as convenient as the existing Luas Red and Green lines."

 

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The secret is out, and it is exactly what we want to hear!

Oprah Winfrey has revealed the key to her happiness and, surprisingly, it is not how much money she has.

The TV host is worth $2.8 billion and regularly donates to charities all around the world, according to Forbes.

However, Oprah revealed that reason she is so fulfilled is because she sets time out of her schedule to do nothing.

Yes, you read that right. She makes sure to sit around and give her mind a break from all those hectic thoughts about work, family, and life.

In an interview with Vogue, Oprah explained her habitual process of relaxation. This is my time to myself, she said: ‘I can just take it all in. I can just be.’

This zen master has seemed to figure out the key to being satisfied with one’s self, and she is slaying it!

This is not just a few minutes out of her day either. Oprah takes as much time as necessary to transform her thoughts into a channel of positivity.

‘I can go weeks and never turn on a television. I’ve gone a summer not having it on,’ she said in her interview.

We can all relate to the fabulous female icon in this context!

During the long work day, all we can think about is that moment when we get home, put our feet up, and watch the next episode of our current Netflix addiction. But Oprah asks us to change it up, hop in the bath, and empty our minds.

Doing nothing is the perfect way to unwind after a long day, and now we have an excuse to cancel plans we made yesterday (back when we were full of hope and energy). 

Just ask yourself, what would Oprah do?

We need our alone time and according to this self-content billionaire, it is the secret to lasting happiness.

Looks like we have a new hobby to add to the CV!

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In Paris, brunch is usually served only on Sundays and cafes and restaurants tend offer one option including all the food and drinks.

Some places work differently and don't require you to get the whole meal deal so check beforehand if you don't necessarily want to spend 25 quid in one go. 

As you would assume, brunch is quite popular in Paris so queues can be quite frightening if you show up to a trendy place at 1pm on a Sunday. But most of the time, the food is worth the wait! Here is our pick for the best places to go for brunch in Paris.

1. Café Marlette

Prepare yourself for a bit of waiting as Café Marlette is a very popular spot to get a delicious Parisian brunch. Coffee, juice, granola, cheese, ham, eggs, fresh bread, cake… for 25 euros you will be fed for the day (that's if you manage to finish your plate). This café also offers a range of cake mixes that are better than any homemade one so grab a couple boxes while you are there. 

 

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51 rue des Martyrs, Paris 9 and 63 rue du Faubourg Poissonnière, Paris 9

2. La Recyclerie

Built from recycled good which makes it look like a Pinterest board, this unique spot is ideal during a sunny day as you can enjoy your brunch plate outside, sitting by some old train tracks that are not in use anymore. La Recyclerie often hosts charity thrift sales at the weekend to the delight of all vintage lovers.

 

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83 boulevard Ornano, Paris 18

3. Uptown

Located near Montmartre, Uptown serves a gourmet brunch in a lovely casual atmosphere. If you can't make it for brunch, this place also offers delicious small plates for dinner, ideal to share and try some absolutely fabulous French food.

18 rue Francœur, Paris 18

4. Paperboy

This small hipster café is worth a visit almost as much for people watching as for the food. On this menu influenced by American and British cuisines with a healthy twist, everything is delicious, fresh and homemade.

 

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137 rue Amelot, Paris 11

5. Clint

Eggs, burgers, salads, homemade cakes, waffles, milkshakes… It will be hard to chose what to order from Clint's tempting brunch menu!   

 

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174 rue de la Roquette, Paris 11

6. Season

This healthy and trendy spot covers all the most instagrammable food you could think of, from avocado toasts, to pancakes, acai bowls, burgers and salads. So if you fancy a tasty meal that will definitely score a few likes on the gram, you know where to go!

 

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1 rue Charles François Dupuis, Paris 3

7. Le Trésor

Parisian are usually a bit wary of all-you-can-eat buffets as they tend to be a sign of lower quality. With its scrumptious yet refined food, Le Trésor is an exception to the rule. From croissants to fresh breads, hot dishes, eggs, cold meats, seafood or homemade cakes, you will enjoy the all-you-can-eat policy until the last bite!

8. BüL & bar à cannes

If you feel like a healthy and yummy brunch, BüL is the place to go. This small eatery offers gluten-free and mostly vegetarian options that won't make you feel like you are missing out on anything. 

 

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20 avenue Trudaine, Paris 9

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Obsessed with checking Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest, Snapchat and Periscope?

You could be putting your mental health at risk in the pursuit of the perfect online persona. 

A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health found that using multiple social media platforms may put people at increased risk of depression and anxiety.

 

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The study found that if you are a fan of just one or two platforms, you are less likely to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression than those who engage on multiple social media sites. 

"Compared to those who used 0–2 social media platforms, participants who used 7–11 social media platforms had substantially higher odds of having increased levels of both depression," says the Pittsburgh's Centre.

 

A photo posted by Oficio (@oficioo) on

If we were all being honest with ourselves, we would say that sadly, getting likes and comments on a perfectly set-up Instagram picture does give us a little buzz.

It's this feeling of false acceptance and success that people can get hooked on, and when a status or photos flops, so can our mood.

“People compare themselves to the posts they see, and then feel inadequate,” Nicole Amesbury, head of clinical development at online-therapy company Talkspace told the New York Post.

 

A photo posted by(@girlyyyygirllll) on

“Another reason is biology-based. Each time they open an app and see a positive response, they get a small amount of dopamine released in the brain."

"When someone doesn’t get enough ‘likes’ or dopamine hits, they feel the loss.”

We think we could do a Kendall Jenner and take a social media sabbatical for ourselves after hearing that. 

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Grab your shorts and sunglasses, there are some must-see concerts coming to Dublin this summer!

Summer concerts are not for the faint of heart. They’re usually an outright mess full of sing-a-longs, greasy food, spilled booze, and fake tan running down your legs.

Needless to say, we love it all!

There is nothing like good music and drinks in the rarely seen Irish sun, and we have got the scoop on the hottest acts to hit the city streets.

So, who’s playing?

Bands and their supporting acts include:

  • Monday 23rd July – Grace Jones – Wyvern Lingo – Gates 19:00

  • Tuesday 24th July – Il Divo – The Trinity Orchestra – Gates 19:00

  • Wednesday 25th July – Rag’n’Bone Man – Grace Carter – Gates 19:00

  • Friday 27th July – Bryan Ferry – Ultan Conlon – Gates 19:00

  • Saturday 28th July – Gavin James – Little Hours – Gates 19:00

  • Sunday 29th July – Imelda May – Keywest, Paradisia – Gates 19:00

To purchase tickets and for all ticket queries, visit Ticketmaster.

This event is 18+ only, and ID in the form of a passport, driver’s license, or Garda age card will be required.

How do I get there?

There will be no nearby parking available so try and take public transport!

(Bus, Rail, DART and LUAS, which all bring you to within a 15 minute walk, or less, from Trinity College.) For more information on travel and transport, please visit:

What can I bring?

Make sure your purse is A4 size or smaller. Think minimalist! There will be no cloakroom or storage room on site.

We have heard horror stories of girls having to turn back or hide their Michael Kors bags in the bushes because they were too big to bring into the venue.

However, you can always store your bag at an Internet cafe or in a locker at one of the locations below:

  • Extreme Ireland tourism (37 College Green)

  • Connolly Dart Station

  • Ned Kelly’s (O’Connell Street Upper)

Please enter Trinity college park via Lincoln Gate and Science Gallery Gate. There will be no access via Front Archway or Nassau Street.

A location map can be found in EvntzApp (www.evntzapp.ie) if you want to navigate more easily around campus.

Photo by Oliver Sjöström from https://ollivves.com

are not allowed to bring in your own food or drink. If you have a condition that requires specific dietary requirements, please email customercare@mcd.ie to pre-clear your food items.

Don’t worry! There will be plenty of food and drink available to buy in the venue. Just follow the signs!

There will be ATMs and plenty of merch in the venue as well. So, you can always buy a band shirt if you’ve nothing to wear.

There is NO readmission to these events, so do not leave and expect to come back for the main act.

What can’t you bring:

  • Aerosols/ Air horns

  • Animals (Other than registered guide or hearing dogs)

  • Alcohol

  • Any item which may reasonably be considered for use as a weapon

  • Audio recorders

  • Backpacks/ Large bags /Waist packs

  • Banners with poles or poles of any kind

  • Bottles

  • Cans

  • Cameras with detachable lens or recording equipment

  • Camping equipment

  • Chinese or sky lanterns

  • Cooler boxes or large containers

  • Crash helmets, or protective headwear, Body-Armor or protective clothing

  • Deckchairs

  • Drumsticks

  • Excessive amounts of batteries, wire, cables or electronical component

  • Fireworks and Flares

  • Flagpoles

  • Garden furniture, Fold up chairs or shooting sticks (excluding shows previously mentioned)

  • Glass

  • Glow sticks

  • Go Pros

  • Illegal substances/ illegal merchandise of any description

  • iPads

  • Large umbrellas

  • Large chains, Spiked bracelets or wallet chains

  • Large flags, Placards or posters (Inc Sticks)

  • Light-Sabres

  • Lasers/Laser pens or torches

  • Led headbands, wristbands, Glow sticks or light emitting objects of any kind (except mobile/cell phones)

  • Liquids – No liquids are permitted other than sealed water less than 500ml allowed (Caps will be removed)

  • Nitrous Oxide

  • Portable laser equipment and pens

  • Selfie sticks

  • Smoke canisters

  • Sound systems

  • Spray cans

  • Tridents

  • Un-Authorized professional film or video equipment

  • Unofficial tabards or reflective jackets

Please keep an eye on the following websites for all the latest event updates:

Make sure to review this list before you make your way down to the event! Invite your friends, and we hope you have a fantastic time!

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Pixar fans, rejoice! One of the greatest Dublin cinemas is showing the best Pixar movies throughout the month of August.

The Lighthouse Cinema will be screening classics like A Bug’s Life and Toy Story, and newer releases like Inside Out and Coco.

Fan favourites including Cars, Monsters Inc. and The Good Dinosaur will also be shown. How exciting!

The Pixar season is bound to attract herds of people to the cinema in Smithfield, who are known for their famous film seasons.

Speaking of the exciting summer event, they said: “This summer we’re bringing you (and the kids!) a season of Pixar films, including every feature film in their repertoire, a Toy Story marathon for all to fill your hearts with joy and a Cars marathon for all the little Lightning McQueens out there.”

It looks like we'll be spending most of August at the Lighthouse Cinema, stuffing our faces with popcorn and enjoying some of the best animated movies.

Pixar season will run from August 10 to August 26. You can purchase tickets for your movie of choice here.

Check out the full list of Pixar screenings below:

A Bug's Life

Finding Dory

Finding Nemo

Cars 3

Cars 2

Cars

Inside Out

Wall-E

Monsters Inc.

Up!

Ratatouille

Monsters University

Toy Story

Toy Story 3

Toy Story 2

The Incredibles

Coco

Brave

The Good Dinosaur

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There’s a brand new addition coming to the Arnotts Beauty Hall and we are beyond excited about it. It’s safe to say this brand will be welcomed with open arms when it arrives at Arnotts on July 26, 2018.

IT Cosmetics is set to launch their first store in Dublin this month and we’ll certainly be stocking up on their game-changing products.

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IT Cosmetics products are bound to make a positive impact on your skin. Their clinically proven, innovative, problem-solving products harness cutting-edge anti-ageing technologies and skin-loving ingredients to truly give you the power to be Your Most Beautiful You.

You can wave goodbye to bad skin days from here on out because IT Cosmetics are bound to give you that healthy glow you’ve wanted for so long.

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The company’s mission is to help women feel more beautiful in their own skin. There is so much pressure on women to look flawless, and sometimes that pressure can really take its toll on you.

Luckily, products like their Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ are here to save the day. Not only will this colour correcting cream leave your skin glowing, but it will also protect it from sun damage. It’s a win-win!

If your skin is looking a bit dull and tired then you must treat yourself to a tub of Confidence in a Cream. This cream will transform your skin and leave it feeling rejuvenated and looking plump.

IT Cosmetics are creating products that will boost your confidence. They vow to help women feel better about their appearance: “We exist to inspire every woman to celebrate her own beauty and to feel confident, important, loved and beautiful. Even if it’s for the first time, or for the first time in a long time.”

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We can’t wait for the launch of IT Cosmetics at the Arnotts Beauty Hall on Thursday, July 26 2018.

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Shockingly, two people have been pronounced dead as a result of the deadly Toronto shooting. A child was reported critically injured early this morning, but it has not been confirmed whether she is the second victim.

Our hearts go out the families, as Toronto police say the girl is just eight or nine years old and was injured along with 12 others. 

The shooting took place in the city’s Greektown district when a large crowd was walking down the street.

The motive behind the attack is unknown, but it has been reported that the shooter targeted at least two cafes or restaurants, according to BBC News.

Canadian media has footage of the alleged shooter. He has been described as a white male with a dark baseball hat and dark clothing, carrying a shoulder bag. He is shown pulling out a handgun before firing.

The Globe and Mail reported that the gunman terrified civilians in a cafe called the Demetres when he opened fire and injured customers. He also fired into a crowd waiting to cross the street.

The paper interviewed one of the witnesses, Andrew Matzios, who was in this crowd when he saw the shooter coming towards them.

‘He had this horrible expression on his face,' Andrew recalled the experience with horror.

While pedestrians desperately ducked for cover, the gunman continued his frightening rampage, firing into businesses as he passed.

Police verified that the shooter was killed but have not confirmed if he shot himself or was gunned down by officers.

While Canada has a lot fewer shootings than its U.S. neighbour, there has been a major increase in gun violence in recent years.

The number of shootings in Toronto more than doubled between 2014-2017, according to police findings.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered his support to victims and called the people of Toronto ‘strong, resilient and brave.’

The Prime Minister has been fighting for stricter background checks. However, debates regarding gun laws continue to cause controversy in Canada.

Our thoughts go out to all affected by the shooting.

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If you haven't heard her name yet, you have certainly seen her abs on the 'gram: Siobhan O'Hagan is a personal trainer whose Instagram account has been inspiring us to hit the treadmill.

Winner of the #FitFam award at the inaugural SHEmazing Awards, Siobhan struggled with her weight growing up and tried every fad diet and exercise plan before finally finding peace with her body and her weight.

Founder of the online training program OH Fitness Factory, Siobhan leads a very healthy lifestyle but she doesn't survive solely on grilled chicken breast and steamed veggies: she knows that a balanced lifestyle includes some tasty treats…

 

What is your typical weekday breakfast?

I usually try and train early in the day so it would be some fuel for training. I love oats with chocolate protein to make protein porridge. 

What about lunch?

I don’t usually have a set lunch/dinner because I eat so frequently – up to 6 meals a day – but one of my staple meals is Kerrigan’s turkey burgers with sweet potato fries and salad. It’s a well-balanced meal that is tasty and quick, which is how I like my meals!

What do you usually have for dinner?

I could actually have the same meal above again! I also make stir fries, curries,  macro-friendly desserts… I love strong flavours and can’t stand boring food.

Is it different at the weekend?

I might go a little looser at the weekend, depending on my plans.

I would usually aim for a cheat meal to fit in with any social occasions I have.

Do you snack during the day?

I don’t actually need to snack because I am eating so frequently. But if I was on the go and had to grab something, I would get some popcorn, rice cakes, a protein bar or even some deli chicken.

What would be your ideal food day?

Protein porridge (yes I love it that much!) for breakfast, then lunch in Ruby's in Swords (all three courses because I would have to get the Nutella Pizza for dessert).

Dinner would be in Bar 13 in Alvor, Portugal for the best tapas ever, in the most amazing setting!

The one food you could have everyday for the rest of your life?

Pizza. No wait, Nutella. Or Salt & Vinegar Pringles. I couldn’t decide!

 

Ate some Pringles and now I'm going surfing. #HappyOut 

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What is your favourite dessert?

I’d have to say the Nutella Pizza in Ruby’s! Although I still do love the Romantica my mam gets for me on my birthday for the last 28 years!

 

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What is your favourite meal of the day?

My post workout meal, whenever that is. I love the feeling of training hard and coming home to eat loads of carbs to replenish the body!

Your favourite restaurant in Dublin/Ireland/the world?

Probably Ruculla in Alvor, Portugal. You need to book a table there before you book your flights. Their fillet steak is just perfection. 

The best brunch place in Dublin?

I don’t get to brunch much but I do love Cleaver East and the bottomless mimosas!

 

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Any “food pet peeves”?

It frustrates me when people class food as good or bad. I see so many recipes with ‘good clean’ ingredients that are calorie laden and people label them ‘guilt free’. There is room for everything in moderation, even Nutella.

What food would you not eat for the whole world? 

Broccoli, can’t stand it!

What can we always find in your fridge?

Kerrigans turkey burgers – people always ask do I not get sick of them but I’ve been eating them for a few meals a day for years.

You have friends over for dinner, what do you cook for them?

I wouldn’t be great at cooking for entertainment – I’d probably order in Thai food!

Do you find it hard to eat a healthy diet in a daily basis?

No not at all. I follow a flexible approach to dieting so I am eating lots of good whole foods but also a few treats thrown in so that I don’t feel restricted. 

 

17 weeks since I had my last Dominos  1 day of eating all around me but looking forward to getting back on track tomorrow! #IIFYM

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What is your guilty pleasure?

Nutella on corn cakes!

What is you go-to drink/cocktail in a bar/pub?

I love a Hendricks and Elderflower tonic (notions!!)

Your favourite place for a drink in Dublin? 

I don’t go drinking in the city much! When the sun is shining, The Old Schoolhouse in Swords has a great beer garden and atmosphere

Featured image: @shaundebarra

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Meghan Markle has become quite the style icon in recent years. Her elegant and chic looks are the envy of millions of women around the world.

The Duchess manages to look like a million dollars in the simplest of ensembles. Since becoming a member of the royal family, Meghan certainly has access to more designer threads and stunning pieces of jewellery than ever before.

The former actress had the honour of wearing Queen Mary's Filigree tiara on her wedding day. The beautiful bride was also spotted wearing an aquamarine cocktail ring from Princess Diana’s personal collection, which was a gift from husband Prince Harry.

Meghan’s engagement ring even features diamonds from Diana’s personal collection, but the Suits star has one very special piece of jewellery from her own collection that she hopes to pass on to her future daughter.

Forget about tiaras and diamonds, Meghan revealed that one day she wants to pass on one stunning item that she purchased herself.

The Duchess of Sussex bought this item when her show Suits was renewed for a third season. She celebrated by splurging on a £4,200 Cartier watch.

In 2015, she told Hello! Magazine: “I’ve always coveted the Cartier French Tank watch,” adding that her dream was to “give it to [her] daughter one day.”

Meghan even had “To M.M, From M.M” engraved on the Cartier French Tank watch. The watch features a classy chain-link bracelet and a delicate rectangle shaped face.

The dainty piece of jewellery is the perfect family heirloom, and it looks like Meghan isn’t the only royal family member who is a fan of the timeless piece.

It is understood that Princess Diana also owned a similar Cartier watch.

How sweet!

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Piers Morgan was caught gossiping on Good Morning Britain about Cheryl Cole and Liam Payne's break up. 

Little did he know, Cheryl was watching from her screen at home and was NOT pleased with his judgemental comments.

Earlier this month, the couple announced that they will be breaking up after two years together. Yes, we were heartbroken too. 

The couple made almost the same statement on Twitter saying that it was a very tough decision but ‘we still have so much love for each other as a family.’

They have a 15-month-old son named Bear and asked the public to respect his privacy as well.

However, not everyone is as heartbroken over the split as Cheryl and Liam.

Piers Morgan commented on the released Twitter statement during Good Morning Britain, poking fun at the situation.

He said, “If they love each other that much, why are they splitting up? They should be more honest and just say, ‘We hate each other’.” 

Cheryl  immediately reacted to Piers’ banter, ready for a throw down.

She texted Piers: “I’m so sorry you didn’t like my statement, Piers – perhaps I should have texted you the intimate details in chronological order as it unfolded,” according to Daily Mail. Get it, girl!

Reportedly, he immediately regretted his on-air comment, feeling guilty for gossiping about the couple’s break up.

Piers returned the text with a sincere apology and was quickly relieved when Cheryl said she was just joking with him.

She replied, ‘I hate those kinds of statements too, so cringeworthy. But we don’t hate each other. It just didn’t work out.’

The Girls Aloud singer and One Direction star still plan on staying on good terms, so that they can continue to co-parent their son.

The couple is committed to making sure their son is raised in a loving environment, and we're rooting for them along the way!

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Russell Brand and his wife Laura Gallacher welcomed their second child into the world over the weekend. The Sun confirmed that Laura gave birth to a beautiful baby girl.

They shared that the parents are overjoyed following their baby girl’s safe arrival.

“Obviously they are over the moon, and Russell will no doubt be gushing about her whenever he next performs stand-up,” the source said.

It is understood Russell and Laura want to keep their children out of the spotlight, so didn’t feel the need to make a grand announcement.

They are also parents to daughter Mabel, who will be two-years-old in November.

Russell previously admitted that becoming a dad made him a better man.

Appearing on The View, the 42-year-old admitted: “I love being present and being a father to my daughter [11-month-old Mabel] – it’s completely changed my outlook.”

 

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He continued: “I was a person who was obsessed with fame, obsessed with what people think of me…but I know nothing can make me happy except for my inner life, and my inner connection.”

“Having a baby is the materialisation of ‘I’m not the most important person in the world’,” he added.

Russell and style blogger Laura tied the knot last year, after two years of dating. The couple said "I do" in an intimate ceremony near their home in Henley-on-Thames.

We can’t wait to find out what name they chose for their daughter.

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