Glammed Up For A Good Cause

If you follow my mum on social media, you may have seen the buzz around Jono's Journey. Jono's Journey is a GoFundMe campaign set up by my mum recently. Here's a bit of the background story: Jono is my brother, who has Asperger's Syndrome - a form of Autism. As well as this, he also has Kyphosis (a severe curving of the spine resulting in surgery to have titanium rods inserted into his back). His condition is worsening due to our not-so-wonderful hospital waiting lists, which means he's in constant pain, finds it hard to breathe and needs help with some day-to-day tasks. Despite all of this, he is one of the most optimistic people I know, and he's always smiling and laughing. 

Often, people with Asperger's Syndrome have one particular thing they're extremely interested in - Jono's is Pokémon. You may think it's just a game you used to play as a kid, but for Jono it's a way to cope, to escape his pain and take his mind off things. Long hospital appointments don't seem so bad when you have a virtual reality to escape to. At this point, Jono is so good at the game he's ranked at number 3 in his age division of the best Pokémon players in Ireland. Due to this, he now qualifies to go all the way to San Francisco to play at the World Championships - no mean feat! 

Due to Jono's condition, he couldn't make it to America on his own without a little help. Because of money issues, my mum knew she just couldn't afford to go with him. It would absolutely break Jono's heart if he couldn't fulfil this dream, so my mum, on the advice of her friend, did something she never thought she'd do - set up a GoFundMe. We never ever thought it would take off like it has. The support has been absolutely overwhelming. The target was met in less than a day, and continues to keep soaring. When I read about the generosity of people, from all over the world, people we've never even met (as they say, "Strangers are just friends you've never met"), I started crying. Watching someone you love go through worsening pain every day is so hard, but watching them get the opportunity to live their dream is heartwarming, and I'm so proud of him. Because of all the wonderful people in this world, my mum and brother are now booked to head to the U.S. in August - and I couldn't be happier for them.

Many local businesses have lended a helping hand to the campaign - one of them is Sligo Hairdressing Academy, a hairdressing school located on Holburn Street, Sligo. They came up with the fantastic idea of running 'Jono's Journey Pamper Days', where you can get your hair done for a discounted price with the money going towards Jono's Journey. With prices starting from €8 for a wash and blow dry going up to €25 for a cut and colour, you can't go wrong! The work is done by experienced hairdressing students and is fully supervised, so don't let the name put you off - I promise you won't lose an ear ;-)

I headed along today for the first of the fundraising days to get a cut and a blowdry. It's not often I get my hair done so I was so excited to treat myself, and a haircut was well overdue. I was greeted by Frances, the lovely lady who runs the academy, who handed me over to David - one of the extremely talented students. He started by washing and conditioning my hair. I don't know about you, but getting my hair properly washed is one of my favourite things in the world. Then it was time to get cutting. I just needed a trim as I'm trying to grow my hair, and a restyle of my side fringe as it wasn't even a fringe anymore, just a flap of hair! For some reason my fringe grows like it's on speed.

I sat there looking like a potato with my wet hair and my hairdressing gown (you know when you go to the hairdressers and sit in front of the mirror wondering if you've always looked like an egg with hair?) while David quickly and competently trimmed my hair and got rid of all the straggly bits. He cut my side fringe back into shape so it swooped across my forehead. It's so nice to not have to keep shoving my hair out of my eyes or get a mouthful of fringe! David actually listened to how much I wanted off unlike some hairdressers who cut off too much and make you spend hours Googling 'how to make hair grow 10 inches overnight'.

Next it was time for the curls. I was looking for a wavey, curly look, so David decided to do some soft bouncy GHD curls. I used to have a GHD and this was one of my favourite things to do with my hair but I sold it *sob* so now I've become lazy and rarely do anything with my hair. I'm always a bit wary of anyone wielding a hair straightener near my head as I've had a few bad experiences of getting the tips of my ears burnt - ouch! I had nothing to worry about. David was so gentle and I didn't once have to duck under the chair.

The end result was gorgeously silky, bouncy soft curls. I was absolutely thrilled with how it turned out, and even more so that now, almost 10 hours later, the curls are still intact! That's so rare for me because my hair is quite thick so usually any wave or curl drops out after about 30 minutes. A truly fantastic job done by David.

I couldn't not show off my new hair, so my boyfriend and I headed to Sweet Beat for a smoothie bowl and then to Hazelwood for a picnic. Pics courtesy of Laurence! There's a bit of a photographer in him I think.

If you'd like to contribute to the campaign, or just treat yourself, you can find Sligo Hairdressing Academy here on Facebook, or call them on 086 400 9559. The next dates for the fundraising days are the 20th of June and the 27th of June. You can also check out Jono's Journey here. Thanks again to Frances and all at Sligo Hairdressing Academy for letting me come in and get my hair done, and for being so generous in helping Jono's dream come true.

Donkeys & Getting Dolled Up

Random title with 2 main subjects that are miles away from each other, I know, but you never know what you'll get with me! You'll be pleased to know no donkeys were dolled up in the making of this blog post.

In February, for her birthday, my mum got invited by the lovely people at Cromleach Lodge to try out their spa for a pamper afternoon. They also told me I could come along so I was delighted I could feature it in my blog. I've never been to Cromleach Lodge before but I've only heard good things about it so I was eagerly anticipating the afternoon. As I didn't have the best end to the week it came at an opportune time - there's nothing like a spa day to take your mind off things!

We had a little bit of time to kill before our appointments so we headed to the Sathya Sai donkey sanctuary, bags of carrots and gingernuts in tow. Sue, the lady who runs the sanctuary, told us all about the donkeys. It's a bit like a retirement home for donkeys who have been abused, injured or who are just getting on a bit. She has 53 donkeys in total - I don't know how she remembers all their names, I can barely even remember mine some days! We gave the donkeys plenty of carrots and gingernuts and then headed on our way to Cromleach Lodge, a short drive from the sanctuary. 

This Shetland pony has better hair than I do.

As we drove up I was in awe. We could see the hotel from the road (as well as some stunning scenery) and it looked absolutely beautiful, especially as the sun came out in full force that day. After a quick snoop around the hotel we headed to the Ciunas (which means 'quiet' in Irish) spa to robe up. We were led to a gorgeous relaxation room to have a quick bite to eat before our treatments as we were starving and the half a KitKat each we'd had on the drive over didn't suffice. We admired the mountain views as we sipped our teas (I've become quite partial to green tea, even though it does taste a bit like the ground) and nibbled at homemade biscuits. I chose a tomato and mozzarella ciabatta and mum went for a ham, cheese and onion toastie. The sandwiches were very tasty and came with a small side salad that had the most delicious dressing - I must find out what it was! 

When we were fed and watered we were shown the steam room, sauna, and - the most exciting bit - the outdoor hot tub. Of course we headed straight for the hot tub! It was so relaxing sitting outside savouring the amazing scenery and soaking up the sunshine. The only thing was because of the breeze I did get quite chilly but I am a naturally cold person! There was also no step inside the hot tub so I nearly went flying in, graceful as ever. Apologies to the other people in the hot tub, they probably got an eyeful and were probably blinded by my milk bottle legs glinting in the sunshine.

After sampling the steam room (with added colour changing fairy lights) and sauna it was time for our treatments. I chose the mini makeover (not the facial for once!) and mum decided on the hydrotherapy bath as she loves that sort of thing. We parted ways and my lovely makeup artist started to work her magic. I believe her name was Natasha (I could be wrong, you know how bad I am with names) and she was lovely and friendly. Kudos to her for putting up with me squirming when she did my eyeliner - you don't know fear until someone else is poking at your eye! I was also delighted with how natural the makeup looked, I was a bit worried they wouldn't be able to match a foundation to me but she was very thorough and talented and I actually looked half human at the end ;-)

The finished look! P.S my best friend Bethany did the ombré in my hair. She's a trainee hairdresser and she's brilliant! If you live in Sligo check out the MSLETB training centre in Ballytivnan, where she trains, and you can get your hair done there without the hefty salon prices.

I was so relaxed by the time we'd finished I nearly fell asleep on the way home! Unfortunately then it was back to reality and dinner needed to be cooked but I was so relaxed I didn't mind so much. Next time I go I'll have to try a seaweed bath. They overlook all the views you can see from the hot tub.

If you're after a pampering day, a weekend away or just a bite to eat - I hear their restaurant is incredible - definitely pay a visit to Cromleach Lodge. Just don't drive afterwards or you may fall asleep!

Thanks a million to all at Cromleach Lodge for a fabulous day. Have a look at their website here for more information.

Eye of The Tiger

If you live in Sligo you may know that Danish store Tiger recently joined the (small) posse of shops around the town. If you aren't familiar with the store, they stock unusual decorative goods, toys, craft supplies...everything really. I love Tiger because unlike your typical 'Euro store' the products are quality and very stylish. The most expensive thing in store at the moment is €30 so everything is really cheap.

Mum got invited to the opening (because she is a Sligo A-lister) and managed to sneak me a goodie bag too which I was delighted with. I now have giant paperclips and bunting for those decorative emergencies. Joking aside, it was a lovely goodie bag!

Going into Tiger makes you realise you really do need decorative fluffy sheep, gorilla shaped erasers and rabbit shaped watering cans. Because...just because! I've already seen about 20 things I need (want) for no particular reason. I was also very excited to see Tiger stock a range of jewellery (really nice jewellery!) and makeup, which I'm eager to try out. They had an eyeshadow palette for something like €3 which is just amazeballs.

Tiger also sell food items such as really nice pretzels, spices and sweets for a fraction of the usual prices. I can't wait to give their spice range a go for my cooking! P.S in case you missed it I'm now writing some recipes for BiaMaith, a new and exciting food website by a very talented chef for people on a budget. Give it a wee gawk!

I'm looking forward to trying out some of their office supplies as I'm an office intern, I definitely need one of their really unique notebooks. Definitely.

So in conclusion, Tiger has graced Sligo with its presence. And it's grrrrreat. I'm sorry, I had to. Thanks to mum for letting me steal her photos!

Sunny Days & Seaside Markets

I'm beginning to sound like a broken record, but I love markets. They're such a nice day out and a wonderful way to find unusual trinkets and gifts - not to mention the great atmosphere.

I've been to Strandhill People's Market quite a few times in the past but haven't been in a while. As I've spent all weekend bumming around the house in my pyjamas (standard) my mum dragged me out of the house and took me along with her. I didn't plan on buying anything but ended up buying too much...oops.

As well as the usual suspects (we had great banter with the ladies from Trimilawn Farm and Talentui Organics - they reassured me I wouldn't have to send off an application for a nunnery just yet) there were some faces I hadn't seen before such as Clo's Chocolates from Le Fournil bakery in Sligo and The Blue Room, who sell quirky signs and home décor - very seaside chic.

After I stole my mum's camera (sorry mum) and snapped away we got down to the nitty gritty and had a proper look. If I had a hefty bank balance and no self restraint you can bet I'd buy something from every stall! I managed to control myself quite well. I was very pleased I found a birthday present for my best friend Bethany - her birthday isn't until May but I'd like to think I'm well prepared now. 

I've heard a lot of good things about bee pollen as a superfood so I was delighted to see a stall selling jars of it, as well as every type of honey you could think of. I also stopped by the Trimilawn Farm stall and asked Ellie what she would recommend to make a chickpea curry. She suggested their Rogan Josh spice mix so I'm looking forward to giving that a go. I love Trimilawn Farm because not only do they have a huge selection of herbs and spices, they are also more than happy to recommend seasonings based on your needs. Mum got some potatoes to plant as she has a bit of a green finger (when she feels like it and doesn't forget plants need nurturing) so we'll see how that goes. Last time we tried to grow potatoes they came out the size of peas.

I also bought a cookie the size of my head from Clo's Chocolates stand which is very naughty of me but I gave half to my brother so I think it's justifiable. I was tempted by all the cakes, paella and the yummy sushi from the Sushi Sisters but I managed to resist!

That was just about everything I bought - as I said, I behaved myself for once. I was extremely tempted by these beautiful cake stands (below) and the elephant mug - elephants are my favourite animal, in case you didn't know this supah interesting fact.

The market has such a buzz about it every time - the sun was shining, the conversation was flowing, stalls were wafting delicious food smells all around and local singers were there to set the mood for the day.

When (if!) I ever get married I want to get one of these lovely wedding prints by Dreaming on a Star. Also, how cute are those badges?! I love their range of personalised prints and kitsch stationery. The unusual necklaces also caught my eye, I love the idea of the key necklace. Very Zoey 101 (remember that show? It was my childhood. I had a key necklace just like hers and I thought I was the bomb).

After inhaling a nacho tray from Streetcart - I smelled very onion-y and sexy all day after that - we headed home and said goodbye to the beauty and the buzz of the market.

If you haven't been to Strandhill People's Market yet - what are you waiting for?!

Face Masks & Festivities | GlamGlow Review

On Friday, the most recent addition to our village - The Mill Pharmacy in Coolaney - had its official opening day. The Mill is a newly opened pharmacy. Hilary, its proprietor, has worked hard to stock her chemist with popular makeup and skincare brands that can be hard to find in other bigger chemists, so I was really excited to head along to the open day and have a proper browse.

As well as the usual pharmacy items, The Mill stocks makeup brands Catrice and MeMeMe (which is actually quite hard to find here in the West of Ireland), Ciaté nail polish (again, hard to find in pharmacies), Cocoa Brown tan - my favourite tan - Avené, MooGoo, Crabtree & Evelyn and Caudalié skincare and the most recent and most exciting addition - GlamGlow.

After hanging around the tantalising food table for longer than is socially acceptable I purchased a few bits and enjoyed the live music. Mum had far too many glasses of wine and was falling about the place and I just ate nearly all the grapes from the cheese boards (which I'm pretty sure were just meant to be a garnish but I don't live by the rules!) and managed to spit one halfway across the room like the classy, articulate lady I am.

There was a great crowd for the opening and not too much complaining when we went out in the baltic weather to watch the cutting of the ribbon! I wish Hilary and all the staff the best of luck and sorry for eating all the grapes.

---

I managed to bag a sample of each GlamGlow mask and also the undereye treatment, so I thought I'd tie a review of each into this blog.

I tried out each mask seperately. I applied them to a clean, dry face just before getting into the shower and left them on for 5 minutes each before washing them off in the shower.

I'm gonna be honest, I had very high expecations as the face masks are very pricey and I've heard rave reviews about them. Here's my honest review on each one.

1. Supermud 

This mask claims to fight common skin concerns - spots, blackheads, discoloration and uneven skin. It's a mud mask that draws out dirt and gets all the gunk out of your pores leaving it clear and smooth.

This was my favourite of the bunch. As soon as I washed it off my skin felt (to quote my mum) 'like a baby's arse' and I also noticed my pores were cleaner. I had a few blackheads on my nose that I noticed were gone after using this. There's nothing more satisfying than feeling like all the gunk has been sucked out of your pores. Mmm.

 The smell of the masks are quite pleasant - mostly earthy and minty. Because of this I think the masks would suit those with sensitive skin - apart from Thirstymud, which I'll get to in a bit.

2. Youthmud

This one claims to be full of tingly goodness. While the first mask claimed to clear out pores this one seems to mostly just smooth out skin and make it softer and brighter. I did find this one made my skin look healthier but it also made my skin feel a bit tight. I'd imagine this would be good for those with mature or oily skin, but for my very dry skin it wasn't quite perfect. I did enjoy how it made my skin look - just not how it made it feel.

The tingling sensation is a bit strange and for the first minute or so you start wondering if it's meant to tingle quite so much, but this is normal. I do wonder if the tingling addition is a bit gimmicky, however.

3. Thirstymud 

This was the most disappointing of the bunch. I'm sorry to say this did not agree with my skin. This one smelt lovely, like apples, but whatever different ingredients were in it didn't like my face. Thirstymud claims to boost and lock in moisture to give a healthy, dewy appearance.

Shortly after applying this, I felt my skin itching and burning - not tingling, burning. I knew straight away this was not the intended reaction so I quickly rinsed it off. My skin looked red and blotchy and felt very hot and tight after using this.

By all means, try this out - it might have just been my skin that didn't agree with it, but for me this one was a no-go. It is a shame as it's a lovely consistency and smells gorgeous. 

4. Powermud

This was my second favourite mask. This mask is fun to apply as it goes from mud to oil. I didn't see much difference between this one and the first one, purpose wise. In terms of how my skin looked and felt after, the first one won, but this is still a lovely mask for that lovely clean feeling after a long week.

Most of the masks contain little black specks which I think are eucalyptus leaves or tea leaves to detoxify. These are really fun to smear around your face and pretend you have a weird skin condition. Or, you know. Because they're good for your pores.

Overall if I had the money or as a present I'd love to fully try out Powermud or Supermud. They are steep at €56 considering you're meant to use them a few times a week. Still, I guess I'll have to keep dreaming!

Bonus - Brightmud Eye Treatment

This was amazing. I suffer from a bad case of the puffies and darkness under my eyes which I hate. I patted this on before getting ready to go out, left it for a few minutes and then wiped it off. Instantly my undereyes felt refreshed and rejuvinated. Even in pictures I noticed a difference - the puffiness was definitely reduced and my eyes didn't look so tired. I'd definitely buy this but I read on the box you only get 12 in a box for €51 and I just can't bring myself to pay that much for that little! Still, if you have the money I definitely recommend going for this one - it's lovely before a night out or special event. A true Hollywood glam treat!

Thanks to The Mill Pharmacy for the GlamGlow samples. 

Have you joined the GlamGlow craze yet?

Check out The Mill Pharmacy here!

Luxurious Locks | The Blow Dry Bar, Sligo

There's nothing better than getting your hair done after a long week. Even better when it's not for a particular event other than feeling like treating yourself and getting a bit of a pampering. 

Today after work I headed along to the recently opened Blow Dry Bar in the Wine Street car park, Sligo. The lovely Elaine invited me along so I could see what I thought and take a few photos in the process. I also got a chance to see their new beauty salon which is opening upstairs with a tanning room, massage room, and nail bar - so you can get your hair and beauty done all in the same place.

The Blow Dry Bar is a unique addition to Sligo. We have lots of great hairdressers, but none that specifically offer blowdrying and styles only. I was also very impressed to see they advertised braids as I haven't seen anywhere else in town do this and braids are really in lately.

The 'menu' offers anything from 12 week blowdries to fishtail braids. There's something for everyone - from the trendsetter to the girl on the go.

Anyone who sees me on a daily basis knows I usually just have my hair styled naturally as I'm too lazy and clueless to style it, thus meaning it mostly just lies flat and lifeless especially now I'm growing it out. 

I was greeted by Elaine and my stylist, Aoife, and I told them my hair woes. They suggested a curly blowdry with pin curls to give my hair a bit of life and volume which I happily agreed to. 

After a lovely relaxing shampoo and scalp massage at the padded (!) basin - no achey necks here, my friends - I was led over to the 'bar' and seated in one of the chic white leather seats. I love the décor in the salon - black and white - and the Kilner jars used to hold hair accessories and fairy lights as a unique touch. 

Aoife got started with my blowdry and we had a lovely chat. It's actually rare for me to feel that comfortable getting my hair done, I usually feel a bit intimidated like I'm going to the dentist or something - anyone else get this?! It was nice to have a truly relaxing hair experience. I also didn't have to ask her once to turn down the temperature on the hairdryer. Usually I find it far too hot and the head would be burnt off you by the end, but at the Blow Dry Bar there was none of this.

In no time my hair was transformed. I entered the salon Katie Hopkins and when I left I was more Katie Price. There's nothing like a glamorous blowdry to make you feel fabulous all day! When the clips were taken out I could immediately feel the bounce and spring in my hair. After copious amounts of hairspray and a lot of hair-swishing I was ready to set off and proceed to swan about flicking my hair for the rest of the day to the tune of 'Glamorous' by Fergie in my head. Apologies to anyone who had to witness this.

Voila! Look at that swishiness in all its glory.

The curl lasted surprisingly well considering it was windy outside and my hair loses a curl at the slightest movement. When I got home I got my personal photographer (my mum) to take a few pictures of me so you could see my hair from the front. So here we have it, my face. Sorry if I frighten any small children.

So there's my Blow Dry Bar experience. If you're around Sligo definitely pop in for a bit of pampering. The Blow Dry Bar also cater to weddings, nights out, parties, the lot. I'd definitely go back if I wanted my hair done for an event - next time I'll try out the braids!

Find the Blow Dry Bar on Facebook or give them a call on 071 917 0629 - you won't be disappointed. They are also hosting a hair and beauty tutorial event on the 9th March, check it out here if you want to learn how to salon style your hair at home and apply your makeup like the professionals.

Thanks a million to Elaine and Aoife at The Blow Dry Bar.

Check out my mum's blog on her experience too for a great before and after!

Getting To Know You

I now have that shite song stuck in my head. Thanks, brain.

While uuhming and aahing about what blog post to do next - and while browsing other blogs for inspiration - I thought to myself, 'Hey, I am quite strange. Surely I have a few facts about me other people may find interesting?'

So voila. A list of 11 facts about me. Hopefully some of you read this list without yawning once or going 'Dis bitch boring' and clicking out of it.

P.S. I know I'm strange.

P.P.S Please don't judge me.

1. Technically, I've had plastic surgery. No, not a nose job or a boob job or anything scandalous like that (though God knows I could do with them) but when I was around 14 I had my ears pinned back. For as long as I can remember, I got bullied in school for having slightly large super sticky-out ears. The nickname of choice was 'Dumbo' which was horrific at the time but now I think of it, Dumbo is awesome and really cute. So are sticky-out ears. 

2. I pushed my brother onto our marble fireplace when I was 2. He cracked his head open, I got put to bed in my slippers (the ultimate punishment when your brother is bleeding all over the place, apparently) and my mum nearly got arrested for child abuse. 17 years later all is forgiven (though I still get blackmailed with this sometimes) and I seem to actually recall doing it.

3. I dropped a glass on my big toe and I have a scar that looks slightly lightning bolt shaped. I guess you could call me Harry Pottoe. (That was bad I'm sorry).

4. I bit my bottom lip so hard my tooth went through it. Also have a scar under my lip. Why are so many of these facts about injuries? Weird.

5. My teeth are probably one of my biggest insecurities. They're extremely overcrowded and crooked so I avoid laughing/smiling/anything to do with my mouth - leave it - as much as possible. I also have very weak enamel and dental phobia so that's fun!

6. I left school when I was 16, just after I finished my Junior Cert. And I don't regret it one tiny bit - in fact I'd say it was a great decision. Now I'm not saying it'll be the same for everyone, but for me this was pivotal in bringing out my self confidence. I did a course at Sligo Community Training Centre, went on to do a course in Sligo College of Further Education and I'm now doing an internship - who knows what's next. I may not have a Leaving Cert but I am happy.

7. I used to have a snail collection when I was about 7. I hoarded all these random snails from the garden and kept them in a lunchbox. My two favourites were called Major and Champ and I used to race them against each other. Yes, it was possible. They also lived in my dolls' house and I drove them around in my Barbie car.

8. I also had pet stick insects. I was a stick insect breeder. They bred like rabbits so I gave some away to people at school and sold them to my teacher for a fiver each. #entrepreneur

9. My first words were 'Spice Girls'. I really loved the Spice Girls.

10. I make up little dances spur of the moment and perform them in the kitchen. Saying that, I haven't done one in ages. I've always thought to myself, 'I wonder if I'll ever find anyone who will dance in the kitchen with me?'

11. I used to have 2 pet chickens called Paxo and Stuffing (horrible I know) and I used to put them down the slide and dance with them. Pretty sure I have a video somewhere of me doing that. Those poor chickens. I always thought the fox caught them but now that I think of what I put them through they probably ran to the fox and begged him to take them away from it all.

I hope some of these facts were interesting. Do feel free to share or comment - it makes my day! If you have any weird facts I'd love to hear them.

All Good Things Come To An End...

As the Eminem song goes, snap back to reality. And as the Nelly Furtado song goes, why do all good things come to an end? Before I start to sound like a whimsical reading of the UK Top 40, I'll get into the meaning behind this title...

As you all know, the Christmas holidays are well and truly over at this point. I have tried to use the excuse 'Christmas is only just over!' to validate still eating 40 chocolates for breakfast but everyone sees past this façade now. I returned to work on the 5th of January, partly dismayed and partly relieved. I get bored so easily and I was beginning to get cabin fever so I was thankful to get back to some sense of normality and routine. Somehow I think the 3am bedtimes and 2pm breakfasts weren't doing me an awful lot of good! 

Whenever I'd go back to work/college/school after the holidays it would always take me a while to get settled. The things I find the hardest to adjust to are:

Getting up early in the mornings. I value my sleep a lot, as anyone who has tried to wake me up early knows. I live for those extra 5 minutes in bed, so much so that recently I've decided to sacrifice looking socially acceptable for extra sleep. I may resemble a baked potato going into work now, but at least I'm slightly more refreshed!

Eating at weird times. I say weird; they're actually perfectly normal times to eat. Whereas before I'd have breakfast any time from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. now I have to actually eat my breakfast IN THE MORNING. The indecency of it all. If I'm going to work I get up at 8:30 a.m. and have something quick like a piece of fruit or a smoothie before I head out the door and then have something more substantial at our 10 a.m. tea break, but I find myself getting starving soon after as I'm used to eating whenever, wherever (who am I, Shakira?) and I now have to adjust to having lunch at 12:30 p.m. During the holidays I would've barely been awake then. Oops.

Writing and using the phone. Bit of a random one but you know when you were in school and after the summer holidays you'd come back and forget to write? Yeah, this is me. In fact, I forget to function in society like a normal human being. On my first day back it took every ounce of willpower to avoid answering the phone with 'What up?!' and I can't even explain the amount of times I wrote words in some mumbo jumbo backward kind of way.

Writing 2015 instead of 2014. We all have this problem. I don't even know what day it is anymore to be honest. I judge the days by how motivated people seem. If it's a Monday, everyone seems a little less enthusiastic and if it's a Friday there's a spring in everyone's step and you can practically smell the weekend in the air (the sweet smell of vodka and regret, mainly).

My heart is this cold.

Another thing I quickly wanted to address, mainly because my blog is like my diary and I like to get things off my chest, is that unfortunately the romance is no more. I did a blog in October-ish about my new relationship and I've had a few people ask how it's going so I just thought I'd briefly clear things up on here. I'm not looking for sympathy or attention - it was a clean break and it was simply because of distance, timing and some other issues that seemed unfixable. Thankfully there's no hard feelings (I hope) so I'm thankful it ended on a somewhat okay-ish note and I'm certain it's for the best. 

I do wonder sometimes if I'll ever be capable of maintaining a relationship but I have to remind myself I'm only 19. I'm so young and I have at least another 15 or so years before I'll lose hope and reside to a life of 40 cats and watching The Late Late Show in my dressing gown. Mind you, doesn't sound all that different to what I'm doing now...

Out With The Old, In With The New

Firstly, I'd like to wish all my readers (all 2 of you, heh) a very happy New Year. Thank you so much for reading and sharing my posts. It's quite comforting knowing people care about the shite I ramble on about!

I was inspired by my mum's post to write a post about how my 2014 was. I feel like the majority of people didn't seem to have a good 2014 but for me it was, on the whole, a year full of experiences. Most were good, some were bad, but it's all a learning curve for a youngster like me.

 

Highlights:

Started driving. I would have liked to have been able to put 'learnt to drive' but alas, I'm not quite there yet. It's not that I find it extremely difficult, it's more that 50% of people on the road are fecking eejits and I can't trust their motives. Still, I have 7 lessons done and I haven't killed anyone yet so in my eyes that's a great start.

Finished a college course and got my qualification. I now have a FETAC level 5 in Business Administration which is what I want to do (until I change my mind and decide I actually want to do neuroscience or something completely random, because that's a me thing to do).

Went to London. For a proper, touristy holiday. Spent time with great people, ate some great food and nearly lost a limb trying to maneouvre my way around the tube stations, but it was an experience.

Went to Spain. My best friend Bethany and I had a blissful few days in Torremolinos, Spain, tanning it up (she tanned, I came back looking even whiter than I was before I left Ireland), checking out the nightlife and drinking far too many cocktails. I'd love to get to do this again in 2015.

Started an internship. I know some people think Jobbridge is a slave trade but I'm grateful for the experience and connections I'll get. I also get awful cabin fever and I love having something to get me up and out every day.

Started the blog. For ages I'd been going on about wanting to start a blog and in 2014 I finally bit the bullet. I love having a place to essentially store my memories, vent or just share my interests. I've only had this blog for about 7 months or so but I'm absolutely delighted with how it's going.

So those are just a few highlights of 2014, not to mention spending quality time bonding with my older brother and being able to always cheer each other up through hard times, with my dad who never fails to make me laugh and always looks out for me, and sharing every experience and good time with my mum who is always there for me to tell me when I'm being a muppet and keep me grounded. My family are my rock and I'm so fortunate we're so tight-knit. I love you guys. *sniff*

So before I get too emosh I'd just like to say thanks to my friends and family for making it a great year and to everyone who has read my blog. Hope you all have a great 2015!