Magatha-May

Happy Friday

2012-01-27T10:51:00.001Z

Oh how I have missed you all.

Regularly scheduled blogging will be resuming shortly. This weekend sees me returning to the land of regular internet connections and evenings that belong to me.

Hugs

Three Trees

2011-12-12T16:40:00.002Z

Do you love a 'winter wonderland' kind of tree?

or a 'traditional holiday' tree?

I love having a traditional green tree just covered with baubles and trinkets. I hate tinsel and any other kind of hanging decorations. White lights only please. I like a beautiful, over stuffed, traditional, gorgeous tree just like this one.

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-12-02T08:30:00.000Z

Time to get back to the Pretty Boys - Chace Crawford

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-11-25T08:30:00.001Z

Adele is one of those women whose emotion is evident through her eyes. Always.

"Adele is simply too magical to compare her to anyone."

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-11-25T08:30:00.000Z

Clive Owen - I have loved him ever since Sin City

Beautiful Bedroom

2011-11-23T10:36:00.000Z

This attic closet is so gorgeous.

And if this was the bedroom that it was attached to I would just be in heaven. I've always wanted a couch or huge armchair in my bedroom to curl up in and daydream.

For Fredrick

2011-11-22T20:25:00.001Z

I thought you might appreciate this... you owe me tea and a chinwag

Comparison

2011-11-19T22:26:00.000Z

Rihanna - We found love

Vivian - Pretty Woman

Hmmmm.... very coincidental

Daylight Savings

2011-11-15T18:23:00.001Z

Time to start saving your pennies for Christmas.

I always panic when it comes to Christmas shopping . I worry if I've spent enough, or too much. The crowds annoy me. I leave everything until the last minute. I make endless lists in case I forget someone. I worry if they'll really like what I get them or will they just be polite and re-gift as soon as possible.

This year I'm going to try approaching Christmas shopping a little differently. This year I will be calm and collected. I will plan my shopping days carefully in order to maximise my efficiency. I will think through each purchase and not spend needlessly.

Ah... who am I kidding? Even I know that somethings never change.

How about you? How do you approach your Christmas shopping?

Monday Misery

2011-11-12T09:05:00.004Z

I'm been having an off week.

Problems seem a little worse than they should be, the weather seems to be that little more miserable, money seems to be a little more scarce, friends seem to be a little further away. Ever get one of those weeks? I'm pretty sure we all get those weeks. I decided to try to get the jump on this one though and while I was in town running errands for my mum yesterday I made sure to bring my current book. And me and my book headed for the nice coffee shop in town that overlooks the river to see if a steaming hot mocha and some time to read could make me smile before a frown set in.

Unfortunately it hasn't seemed to work...

Have you any other solutions to recommend? I could really do with some help.

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-11-11T16:03:00.001Z

Rachel Evan Wood

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-11-11T14:23:00.001Z

Sting, more of a man than a boy

Things I Love Thursday

2011-11-10T13:35:00.003Z

New Boots - They fit, they fit, They FIT!!! I am one of those unfortunate ladies who is blessed with strong, powerful calves. Which would be great for running away from predators and so forth but are kinda crap when it comes to finding beautiful, affordable boots that fit. So finding a pair of flat, black, knee high boots that fit like a dream and look amazing are not only the high light of my week, but also of my month.

Old Friends - Lots of friends are back home from far flung places today and all are about Limerick for tea. Lots of time spent catching up on gossip and remembering in-jokes.

Honourable Mentions - toffee nut lattes at Starbucks, laughing with my girlfriends about the thoughts of stuffing a sports bra, contemplating getting myself a Bobble, red scarves and blue cardigans, Celebrations sweets, LMFAO, leopard print anything, giant jelly babies, hot scones with jam and whipped cream, steaming hot berry tea

Wednesday Wishes

2011-11-09T08:13:00.000Z

I wish for a little Fairy Dust...

Fairy Dust

2011-11-08T11:32:00.000Z

When I was a little girl I called Christmas lights 'Fairy Dust'.

When I was a moody teenager I sat in the darkness with just the glow of 'Fairy Dust' to keep me company.

When I became an adult I tried to rationalise my fondness for white twinkling lights, and I began to lose the joy of 'Fairy Dust' through the analysis.

Today I remember my 'Fairy Dust' and how it made me feel safe and protected. I think it might be time to put some lights back up in my life.

What was your 'Fairy Dust' as a child? What made you feel safe?

Key Issues

2011-11-07T21:06:00.000Z

My new favourite thing to admire is beautiful keys. I took part in a 24 hour Universal Design challenge last week... more on that a little later... and one thing I spent a lot of time looking at was keys. So gorgeous, so simple, so chic.

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-10-28T11:13:00.001+01:00

Emily Browning first hit my radar in Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. This year saw her on our screens for both Sleeping Beauty and Sucker Punch. Very pretty, and very versatile.

Make Or Break It

2011-10-27T14:01:00.000+01:00

What are your deal makers, or indeed your deal breakers, when it comes to a relationship? What are the things that instantly let you know that you could never date this guy? And is there anything that a guy does that makes you attracted to him regardless of the rest of his perceived flaws?

For me the deal breakers are the easy ones to define...

if he has bad teeth or poor breath
if he is unkind to animals
if he disrespects his immediate family
if he suffers from an addiction
if he is stingy with money

These traits in a guy would make me wary about dating him in the long term. Some are a little selfish but I do not apologise for having them on my list. Unkindness to a helpless animal, to me, shows a possibility of being a poor father. I have enough trouble keeping my own life straight and I really don't have the mental or emotional ability to rehabilitate a recovering addict. A persons teeth always let me know how well they take care of themselves. I'm not dissing crooked teeth - my own aren't the straightest - but they have to clean and taken care of. I don't need a guy to spend a ton of money on me, and I definitely don't look to date rich guys but a man who insists on going 'dutch' for every date and imposes a budget on Christmas presents just screams 'tightwad' to me.

The deal maker is a much harder one to pin point. I ran through a number of different deal makers in my head but each of them were only applicable in some instances.

For me... I have to be the most important thing in my man's life. I have to be a princess in his eyes. Importance is something that isn't immediately apparent when you start dating a guy. It's something that is realised over a period of time through words and gestures. He also has to have an amazing smile and smell great. A great natural smell is really important to me.

How this can be turned into a single deal maker.... beyond my knowledge.

What are your deal breakers and makers? What turns off a guy instantly? And what wins your heart?

Things I Love Thursday

2011-10-20T10:08:00.002+01:00

Halloween - I am a Halloween fiend, or at least I used to be. In college we never, ever decorated the house for Christmas - ever! But we always decorated for Halloween - always! Our mid week party was a 'no costume, no entry' affair where mid-night costume changes were not unheard of. This year sees us with no house to decorate and all of the Glensiders scattered to the four winds. Halloween will never be the same.

Glitter nails - My toe's look like a Wizard of Oz extra. I love, love, love it - a little bit of sparkle in my otherwise boring day. It's amazing how a little bit of sparkle - in your makeup, your outfit or accessories can just lift your mood. I even ordered a lemon cupcake at Sweetie Pies last weekend that had glitter all over it. What's your favourite way to add a little sparkle to your day?

Chinese takeout - This Friday night will be spent in the company of great friends and wonderful food. We don't do takeaway at home, we never have. No Indian, Chinese, pizza, nothing - just wholesome home cooked meals. So I'm going to sneak over to S&C's for a little dim sum and noodles to celebrate both S and I getting through our vivas. My favourite takeout will always be Chinese or Thai. I just wish that we could get it in those gorgeous takeout cartons. What's your favourite?

Honourable Mentions - long, dark nights in front of an open fire, Grey's Anatomy back on TV, mini marshmallows, lemon meringue pie milkshakes, poached eggs for breakfast, hash browns, hunting for a new perfume - I'm looking for something warm smelling but not too sweet, getting my winter stuff out of storage,warm blankets, sparkling lemonade

I See You Baby

2011-10-19T09:19:00.000+01:00

I spotted this one over at 1000 Awesome Things this morning. It sums me up perfectly right now.

I spent a fantastic night last Saturday with some friends, sitting in an apartment remembering the dance tunes that shaped our late teens. With YouTube hooked up to a surround sound system and all sorts of bad 90's and 00's music pumping out it was amazing to just close my eyes and forget for a little while.

Sash, Darude, Kernkraft, Moby, Groove Armada, Fatboy Slim, Puretones... all those memories.

Today I ask you to take ten minutes, put on your headphones and crank out some tunes of your teens. You can thank me later.

Wish Me Luck

2011-10-14T10:00:00.000+01:00

Things I Love Thursday

2011-10-13T11:53:00.001+01:00

Treats - Specifically Rice Krispie treats. Sticky, sugary, teeth ruining treats that remind me not to take myself too seriously.

Clean Smells - Every time I walk past the laundry on campus I get a whoosh of hot, clean smelling air. Reminds me of somewhere very safe.

Basic Black - This autumn and winter will see me returning to the wonderful basic black jumper. Cropped, embellished, oversized, loose knit.... they will all be mine this season.

Honourable Mentions - being asked to compete in a 'bake off' in a few weeks, crisp Gala apples, my new gorgeous headphones, driving with the windows down, red glitter toe nails - makes me feel very 'Wizard of Oz'-like, winning giveaways, using purple staples, weather warm enough to have salad for lunch

Winning

2011-10-12T11:11:00.002+01:00

Today is a good day. I won some stuff. I like winning.

Over at Ellie Loves... I've just won a Neutrogena Grapefruit pack and ages ago, back in the time of thesis, I won a gorgeous wooden initial from Kate's Irrelevant.

All I need is a coffee and a hug and my day will be complete.

What do you need for a winning day?

Sums Me Up

2011-10-09T16:14:00.000+01:00

I seem to live by this saying

Harder Than I Thought It Would Be

2011-10-07T16:28:00.001+01:00

Get your head out of the gutter... this is not that kind of post.

It's been a while since I blogged regularly, more than a few weeks but less than a few months. This thesis has really drained all of my energy and I'm finding it difficult to get motivated to blog again. Even while I was away from Magatha May I still kept an eye on all of my favourite blogs with google reader and some of the bloggers who kept inspiring me over the past few weeks were -

Gala Darling

Smaggle

You should check them out when you get a chance... if you're not already an avid follower.

Bed

2011-09-26T11:13:00.000+01:00

I miss my bed.

A girls bedroom should be her sanctuary, her place to go and hide away from all that is bad in the world and forget her troubles as she shuts the door behind her.

Right now my bedroom is not this place. It is where I go to snatch too little sleep, and toss and turn. I am so looking forward to submitting this thesis and getting to call my room 'home' again. These rooms all look so cozy and comforting, perfect for a little down time.

Has anything ever happened to stop your room being your haven? I'd love to know how you got it back.

An Observation

2011-09-22T17:54:00.000+01:00

Is it a sign that I have been single for too long when the first thought to cross my mind on seeing couples strolling along, hand in hand, is...

'That's very unhygienic'?

Away

2011-09-05T16:12:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone,

I'm really sorry to say that I'll be taking a two week break from Magatha May. I've finally reached the latter stages of writing up my thesis and it is going to be an all consuming process.

I will be back soon.

Miss you already,

M-M

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-09-02T09:01:00.000+01:00

Chris Colfer

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-09-02T08:48:00.000+01:00

January Jones

Things I Love Thursday

2011-09-01T14:28:00.000+01:00

Right now I'm in a slump. Just a little slump though. I don't really love anything enough to gush about it here to you all and rather than lie to you all and fake some love I decided to be honest and let you know that today, and this week, most things suck in my book.

I still have a tiny bit of love to give so my honourable mentions still stand for now.

Honourable Mentions - black pepper and cardamon body wash - smells divine, single flowers in crystal glasses, getting to see much missed friends this weekend, story cubes, beans on toast and the anticipation of all sorts of comfort food for autumn, listening to old Beyonce songs

Strictly...

2011-08-31T11:05:00.000+01:00

Sometimes it's the little things that make me sad.

A Little Soft And Squidgy

2011-08-30T20:06:00.000+01:00

So... they're bringing out a third Ghostbusters movie soon. I heard that on the radio today while everyone was giving out that Bill Murray wasn't really interested in coming back to the franchise.

But as soon as I heard the word 'Ghostbusters' I had only one thing on my mind for the rest of the day...

Marshmallows... soft, sugary, squidgy marshmallows. All sweet and delicious and way too easy to eat. Staypuff marshmallow man, you have a lot to answer for.

Do any movies instantly remind you of food? Like 'Marie Antoinette' and cream cakes, 'Chocolat' and rich handmade truffles, '28 days later' and tinned peaches...

Guilty Pleasures

2011-08-28T15:02:00.000+01:00

I was watching re-runs of Sex and the City a few nights ago and it was the episode where Aidan had moved into Carries apartment. Carrie was at the coffee shop with the girls complaining that now she couldn't indulge in the little things that she loved that she would never let anyone else see her doing... like eating buttered crackers while standing in the kitchen.

When it comes to guilty pleasures mine are a little more embarrassing than that.

Walking around the house in short shorts and knee high socks thinking that I am the queen of the roller derby (I don't skate by the way).

Asking my housemate to not throw out the dusty, crushed cereal at the bottom of their cereal bag and saving them all up until I have a bowl full of cereal mush.

Eating the most comforting of all meals when I'm all sad and lonely - tinned spaghetti hoops and a jar of drained baby carrots, all heated together and eaten from a bowl with a spoon.

Getting into the car and cranking up the stereo to sing along with Taylor Momsen and Ke$hia, complete with disdainful stares and glares at all the cars around me.

Refusing to put on a pair of pyjamas in winter time but still complaining of being too cold to sleep until I put on a hoodie and pair of socks.

Putting on completely over the top eye makeup and getting straight into the shower and washing it off.

What are some of your guilty pleasures? Don't leave me hanging all alone out on this limb of honesty...

Pretty Boy Friday-ish

2011-08-27T16:03:00.000+01:00

Hi there Jensen Ackles... how are you today?

Pretty Girl Friday-ish

2011-08-27T15:50:00.002+01:00

Kaley Cuoco - otherwise known as Penny from The Big Bang Theory is our sweet but sassy girl for this week.

I had this photo at the top of the page but it was pointed out to me that this isn't Kaley. My apologies for any confusion, and thanks for the heads up Emma

A Little Bit Of Filler

2011-08-26T14:46:00.000+01:00

I'm running a little behind today so here is a little pretty 'couple' Friday to keep you entertained until this evening. The usual pretty series will resume later on.

Things I Love Thursday

2011-08-25T14:47:00.000+01:00

Thesis Tea Time - Since I'm at the write up stage of my thesis I am pretty much chained to my laptop and desk, and good, creative academic writing really can't happen without a full cup of coffee beside me. The only way to keep a constant supply ready is to make my coffee in a travel mug. Otherwise it just gets freezing cold by the time I remember to drink it. Doesn't stop me lusting after some new coffee and tea mugs though. I went trawling over at Etsy earlier and fell in love with this, this and this.

Fork Fancy - On my last day of house sitting this week (I've been minding S&C's house while they were on honeymoon) I decided that a treat of coffee and cake was in order to commemorate the last day in Cashel. Away I went to the local cafe and bakery. Bought my coffee and slice of hazlenut tart and sat down beside the window with Raymy to people watch for a little while, and as I enjoyed my slice of tart I realised that it wouldn't have tasted as good if I ate it with a spoon. Some things just taste better when eaten with a fork... cheesecake, cupcakes, ice cream, pie, all better from a fork. Do you think so too?

Mix It Up - I was watching No Strings Attached one evening this week and I nearly died laughing when Ashton Kutchers character gave Emma a period mix CD as a gift. Featuring songs like 'Sunday bloody Sunday', 'I've got the world on a string', 'bleeding love', 'red, red wine'... you get the gist here. So I started thinking about mix CDs... and how much meaning we put into them when they are being created. Have you ever made a mix tape or CD? Who for? Why?

Honourable Mentions - fresh, new raspberry coloured notebooks, apple bonbons, nude nail polish, oversized aprons while working in the kitchen, roast chicken dinners, hot chocolate on a stick, otter pops, friends who pop over for a visit with chocolate and magazines under their arm, this skirt from River Island, coke from a can - not a bottle, Cirque du Soleil souvenirs, daydreams of visiting all of the major American cities, penguin skittles

Wednesday Wishes

2011-08-24T08:39:00.000+01:00

This week I really, really want...

...to make some home made ice pops.

I've found tons of recipes here, here and here but can you recommend any favourite flavours?

Mischa Want

2011-08-23T14:43:00.000+01:00

Spotted today, and am currently lusting for, the Mischa Barton Georgie tote,

but only in green or stone.

Have You Ever...?

2011-08-21T10:52:00.000+01:00

Learned a hard lesson...Part 1.

Some things just stick with you. Comments, thoughts or memories that just never leave your head. I have several of these rolling around my mind constantly but I'm going to tell you about one of them today.

I graduated as a product designer but in order for me to get a place in the course I needed to have a portfolio so I started off doing a PLC in portfolio design. Well really I started off doing applied chemistry in Cork after my Leaving Cert but after the cert stage I decided that science wasn't for me. That is a much longer story to tell and isn't for today. Which led me back to design.

At this stage my secondary school art teacher was running the local portfolio course so I contacted her and got a place on the course. I enjoyed the course, I loved that I already knew my lecturer and I didn't really love the fact that the rest of the class had an average age of 18 and I was already 21. I was worldly, I had lived away from home, I had been to college, I had a car, I had stories that could rival, and beat, anyone on the course. I was cocky. And arrogant And more than a little obnoxious. I thought I was great.

About half way through the course we were told that we had a project which was to be based on the local museum display, we were to put on a fashion show which was to be inspired by a section of the permanent exhibition. My section was Stone and Ironage Tools. Not a bad section. And I set to work, sketching the exhibition, detailing the tools, putting together inspiration boards for my 'Collar and Cuffs' theme. I was so proud of my work, so sure of it, so I took it to our lecturer to receive my praise.

She glanced quickly at my work as she was already working with another student and she screamed when she saw it. Actually recoiled in horror from my pages and yelled at me to 'take that Brain Vomit as far away from me as you can'. I was crushed, devastated, and in shock. The entire class had heard and watched my rebuff. My fall from self given grace. I think I even ran to the bathroom and cried at the time. But she was right. Completely and utterly correct. It was sloppy work. I had taken all my thoughts and threw them down onto a page with no consideration of form or presentation. Her description was 100% accurate, I had spewed my thoughts out and expected everyone to be thankful for my work.

I learned a valuable lesson that day. Humility. I learned that no one was going to reward me for just being there and producing any old thing. I learned that design wasn't just about regurgitation of ideas. I learned a swift and powerful lesson on presentation and effective communication of ideas.

And to this day I still thank that lecturer for what she taught me. Her method may have been cruel but it was one of the most effective methods I have ever encountered.

What thoughts have stuck with you? How have they affected your life?

Part 2 to follow...

Maxi-licious

2011-08-17T10:32:00.000+01:00

Don't you love how since the coming of Beyonce you can just add 'licious' to the end of any word?

Today I'm loving, and rocking, the maxi dress. Mine is grey and pink striped, picked up for a fiver in the sales - thank you Penny's, a grey boyfriend cardi over it with a button or two done and a slim grey fabric belt to pull it all in, since the dress is actually two sizes too big - thank you Penny's. Finishing off my look for today is a pair of grey wedges and a bright turquoise clutch to add a little colour.

What are you wearing today?

A Little Self Love

2011-08-16T12:17:00.001+01:00

Get your head out of the gutter... Here's a few images from my Pinterest 'Self Love' board - a collection of images of all the things that I specifically love.

Belief. Delicate Jewellery. Initials. The Beach. Intimacy and Hugs. Pretty Nails. Fabulous Lingerie. How I See Me.

Hey There Stupid

2011-08-13T15:59:00.000+01:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you're doing something really stupid and you know it, but you can't really help yourself?

That's me, today, stupid.

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-08-12T12:58:00.000+01:00

Michael Fassbender rounds out this weeks posts as out PBF.

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-08-12T08:24:00.000+01:00

Billie Piper has been nominated as the week's Pretty Girl. Fabulous, flirty and fun.

Things I Love Thursday

2011-08-11T09:37:00.000+01:00

Help - I love that I have the kind of friends that when a cry for help is sent out they reply. I'm part of a pretty big project over the next few weeks that I really shouldn't have taken on and the support that everyone is giving is overwhelming to say the least. Thanks guys, I heart you all.

Comfort - When times get a little tough for me I always retreat to all things comfort related. My cozy slipper socks, lots of body lotion and curling up in bed. Steaming mugs of tea and long chats on the phone with people I love. My favourite worn jumper and a huge scarf. Everything and anything soft and warm and snuggly. The only thing I was missing was lots of hugs and cuddles to make my comfort-athon complete.

Honourable Mentions - red tunnel scarves (on my must find list for autumn), the bounce of a fresh blow dry, sunny afternoons with my shades on, fresh linen on my bed, wearing orange, the Benetton sales (pity I can't afford to bring any of the treasures home though), long sleeves and short shorts, my beautiful new turquoise day clutch, wanting these wedges and these shoes from ASOS, coffee and a book while still in bed, sorely missed friends on semi surprise visits, Very Berry Barry's tea, hugging a hot water bottle on a cold night, this beautiful bracelet, new cartoon themed panties

Wednesday Wishes

2011-08-10T10:18:00.000+01:00

This weeks wish is a simple one...

...to shake this sense of impending doom

The Journey Begins

2011-08-09T23:56:00.001+01:00

Stage 1 of the Ombre Journey got underway today.

I am so thrilled with the outcome I actually bounced out of the salon earlier on. My hair is notoriously difficult to colour and unmanageably thick. Most attempts to dye it result in a disaster that just gets covered up with a bottle of Natural Black, and hair cuts can be very hit or miss (if the layers are too short my head has a tendency to look like a Christmas tree).

The photos really do no justice to the colour at all. You really need to see this colour in daylight to get the full effect. Laura, the owner of Vibe in Thurles, who personally took care of my colour today, spent ages putting in a head of duo tone low lights in copper and caramel. She put a lot of care into making sure I didn't end up with zebra hair, and it paid off. I've got beautifully natural looking tones that make me wish I had actually gotten them from a summer on the beach.

We decided to skip cutting my hair into the new style for the time being and wait and see how the next stage of colouring turns out before chopping off 6 inches. Secretly I was delighted - this is the longest my hair has ever been, ever and it would be kinda nice to keep it for a little longer.

Cardigan - Pennys

Vest - Dunnes

Jeans - Dunnes

What do you think?

Hair Update

2011-08-08T12:03:00.000+01:00

Finally... it's hair cut time.

Tomorrow is the first in a series of trips to the hairdressers to turn my hair into this.

If you ask really nicely I will post a photo for you

Just So You Know

2011-08-07T17:48:00.000+01:00

Do you know what's really difficult to do?

Painting your nails when you have the hiccoughs...

Fact.

Things I Love Thursday

2011-08-04T16:14:00.000+01:00

Fantastic Fakeness - I had two fake firsts on my life last week... nails and spray tan... and I think I'm a convert. Both turned out amazing, both lasted ages, both were fairly comfortable... well as comfortable as you can be in someone else's house and being told you can't wear a bra until tomorrow. My main reason for the tan was because I was wearing a strapless dress to S&C's wedding last week and my nails were to match the rest of the bridesmaids shellac manicures. Even though a girl should rarely fake anything this is highly, highly recommended.

Braids - Overly long hair that I cannot style by myself equals a lot of bun and braid wearing just to keep it off my face. I had been growing my hair for the wedding and it's probably at its longest in my memory - about a third of the way down my back - and that's very long for a girl who used to get a blade four trim all over in the summer months. Thank god that braids are still in style - simple, easy and so pretty to look at... and a great way to hide two day old hair.

Old Favourites - I've been spending a lot of my time over at S's, am keeping an eye on her cats cause I'm a great friend. I might have also pilfered her bookshelves a little, pulling out books that I've read years ago and almost forgotten about. Delightful.

Honourable Mentions - strapless dresses, apple crumble, Room by Emma Donoghue - it's haunting, road trips, Micheal Buble, photos from Vegas, yoghurt with muesli, lie-ins, the first run after a week off, the guilty pleasure that is Teen Wolf, writing in pencil instead of pen for a whole day, band aids with cartoons printed on them - makes me feel like a kid again, crunchy green apples, bare legs - even when it's raining

Wednesday Wishes

2011-08-03T08:56:00.000+01:00

I wish for a popcorn filled, girlie-movie night in.

Bunny Love

2011-07-30T21:22:00.000+01:00

This is the cutest piece of jewellery... ever. Fact!

Outfit - Wedding

2011-07-24T17:04:00.000+01:00

Dress - First Editions

Hat - First Editions

Shoes - McMahons

Clutch - McMahons

Finally an outfit post...

Here's what I wore to a friends wedding last Thursday.

You might be wondering why I'm holding a bow in my hand for such a dressed up occasion but it all makes sense I promise.

A few days before the wedding Aine, our bride, emailed and asked if a surprise could be put together for Paul, the groom. She really wanted to add a little archery to the ceremony so we put together a Guard of Honour, but archery style with all of the members of his club who were attending. So while the signing of the register was going on we slipped out of the church and set ourselves up at the doorway of the church.

I don't think you can see it in the photo below but Paul has a pin on his cravat with a bow engraved on it.

Wednesday Wishes

2011-07-20T08:30:00.000+01:00

I wish...

... I was bold enough to wear red lipstick

Wedding Day Inspiration

2011-07-19T21:00:00.000+01:00

Some of you already know that I work part-time at a bakery, and any of you who follow me on Pinterest will have spotted my Cake Love board where I keep all my inspiration for the kitchen. Since I have two sets of friends getting married in the coming days I thought that I could share some of my favourite wedding cakes with you.

As you can clearly see I have a fondness for clean lines and classically decorated cakes - no novelty or topsy turvy cakes for me.

What's your favourite type of wedding cake? Do you like to keep it simple or would you rather a cake full of personality? I'd love to hear your thoughts?

Things That Turn Me On

2011-07-16T16:23:00.000+01:00

Sunshine

The Smell of Coffee

Toned Limbs

Good Conversation

Sheer Clothing

A Lingering Hug

Over Ripe Pears

A Genuine Smile

A Firm Handshake

Coconut Flavoured Anything

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-07-15T22:18:00.000+01:00

How stunning is Clemence Poesy?

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-07-15T22:10:00.000+01:00

This weeks PBF is a recommendation from a very good friend...

... I give you Tyler Hoechlin, of Teen Wolf fame

Things I Love Thursday

2011-07-14T22:52:00.001+01:00

Bubblicious - Oh I love blowing bubbles... it makes me feel like a kid again. Sunny days just call out for a little child-like entertainment in my day. Some bubble blowing while sitting on the lawn, maybe a little kite flying, toss a frisbee about for a while, build a massive sand castle if you can find a beach or a sand pit. Love the feeling of being a kid for a little while!

Denim Shorts - This is something that everyone and anyone can wear. Smart, casual, trashy, chic, distressed, high waisted, daisy dukes, anything. just like your trusty jeans anything goes. My favourite way to wear them? I always cut my own shorts from much loved jeans that have become too ragged to keep, and pair them with a black vest, slouchy boyfriend cardigan and some wedges. A long necklace or two to break up the boring vest, maybe a loose braid or bun and I'm all set for a cool, casual day.

Americana - Now... I'm not American so this is not a very late patriotic, 4th of July thing. I have been really attracted to strong outfits lately. Bright red and cobalt blues paired together really grab your attention and brim with confidence and the red lips just add an air of womanly sophistication to an otherwise garish look.

Honourable Mentions - honesty - sometimes you are hard to hear but exactly what I need, steaming hot cappuccinos, peach smoothies - so fresh and summery tasting, vintage style underwear, only two weeks today until S&C get hitched, clean cars and loud tunes on the stereo, studded wrap around bracelets layered over your watch, fresh wedges of ripe melon, warm day and even warmer sun showers, the feeling of accomplishment after a particularly good work out

Wednesday Wishes

2011-07-13T10:04:00.000+01:00

Today's wish is pretty simple...

... I wish for coffee and a slice of cake as a reward for all my hard work

I also wish for coffee and cake for all of you too

Classical Beauty

2011-07-10T23:07:00.000+01:00

One of my favourite pieces of music is Gabriel's Oboe. I first heard this piece while watching The Mission and quickly became besotted with it. My preference is for it to be played on the flute though.

It reminds me of a great night with some friends, sitting around a fire pit, cajoling and threatening in order to get one of the girls to bring out her flute and play something. Finally she relented and agreed to play just one song... I requested Gabriel's Oboe, and it was beautiful. Staring into the firelight, hearing nothing but those beautiful notes, not another sound around us, my arms covered with goosebumps that had nothing to do with the cool night air. Perfect.

Is there a piece of music that gives you chills? Something that you instantly fell in love with?

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-07-08T15:41:00.000+01:00

Bonnie Wright...

...beautiful

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-07-08T15:23:00.001+01:00

Oliver Phelps

James Phelps

Matthew Lewis

Tom Felton

Rupert Grint

Daniel Radcliffe

In honour of the week that it is...

... this week is given over to all the boys who grew into men while filming the Harry Potter series

Things I Love Thursday

2011-07-07T09:37:00.001+01:00

Bare Toes - nothing say summer more to me than bare toes and a flash of bright colour. Whats your go to colour for the summer months? This summer I think I'm going for coral and pale gold tones.

Crazy Complements - I know that all girls are taught to say 'thank you' when someone pays them a complement. Easier said than done though. How many of us have been told our dress is lovely only to reply with 'this old thing? I got it for €4 in Pennys' or 'really? I always think it makes my ass look fat'. When a guy tells you that you're amazing you look to the ground, blushing, and think 'he obviously doesn't know the real me'. We all have the same issues with accepting, and believing, complements. Recently someone told me some nice things about me... and this time I chose to say thank you and to ask them why they thought that, so that I could learn a little more about how some people see me. Try it next time, let me know how you get on.

Beautiful Mirrors - You can't but feel gorgeous and pretty as you study your reflection in a fabulously ornate mirror. So spoil yourself and get an amazing mirror for you bedroom, dressing room, bathroom or to look in just before you step out your front door.

Honourable Mentions - this blanket, stripes, hot water with lemon and honey, strawberry licorice, bow shaped rings and other pretty jewellery, ruched blue dresses and fabulous hair pieces, new shoes, knowing that someone smiles when they get a text from me, this gorgeous dress from Free People, new mugs, sheer cream kimono jackets, I want this right now, pink carnations - thank you very much Carrie Bradshaw, slouchy cardigans - just like this one, knowing that I fit into every pair of jeans in my wardrobe

Wednesday Wishes

2011-07-06T08:18:00.000+01:00

Todays wish is for...

...beautiful, strong, sexy legs

Just gotta keep doing lunges...

Have You Ever...?

2011-07-04T13:04:00.001+01:00

Watched someone cry in public?

Not just glanced and looked away in embarrassment, both for them and for you... but actually watched them. I have...

I was on the train, coming home from Dublin. Sitting in a seat by the window, my mp3 player for company, happy at the thoughts of zoning out for an hour or two. The seats were starting to fill up and I knew that I would definitely have someone sitting across from me, and probably someone beside me too. I hate having people sitting beside me on the train from Dublin - for some reason people think that they have to make small talk because you're traveling down the country so I made sure that my headphones were visible and turned away to look out the window.

After a few minutes someone sat in the seat across from me, not diagonally but directly across from me, I paid little attention and continued to stare lazily out the window. As the train pulled out from the station I gave a little internal sigh of relief that no one was occupying the seat beside me and straightened myself up a little. It was at this stage that I actually noticed the woman in the seat in front of me. In her late twenties, maybe early thirties, fairly pretty, dark hair, and tears running down her face.

So I looked away, as you do when you see someone crying in public. It felt like I was intruding on her personal space, but I glanced back at her a few seconds later to see if she really was crying. Yup, two puffy eyes and a river of tears were clear to see on her face, no sobbing though. She didn't seem to notice me looking so I didn't look away. So I watched her, for about five minutes. Her tears never stopped, never lessened. After those five minutes I felt a little bad for intruding on such a personal moment without even acknowledging it so I reached into my bag and found a small pack of tissues. I left the tissues down on the table and slowly pushed them over to her and the only thing I could think to say was 'If you want someone to talk to...'

She shook her head, took a tissue and turned to stare out the window, just like I had done earlier. I'm smart enough to take a hint. She cried the whole way from Dublin to Thurles. The whole way.

Have you ever watched someone cry? In public? How did you react?

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-07-01T14:57:00.000+01:00

This weeks PGF has a quiet elegance about her.

Happy Birthday Claire Forlani

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-07-01T14:43:00.000+01:00

Even though he's been keeping a low profile we have not forgotten about Stuart Townsend

Things I Love Thursday

2011-06-30T12:19:00.002+01:00

Hello 80's - I've been reminiscing with movies from my childhood lately. Were you a 'Lost Boys' (1987) and 'Heathers' (1988) kinda person, all dark and tortured, too much backcombing and eyeliner or were you 'The Breakfast Club' (1985) and 'Ferris Buellers Day Off' (1986) - troublesome but lovable, denim jacket and scrunched up socks? I was a Ghostbusters, Princess Bride, Indiana Jones, Beetlejuice, Spaceballs, Coming to America kinda girl, just a little bit of everything, and still am.

Things on Toast - Everything automatically tastes better when you put it on toast. Scrambled eggs, baked beans, melted cheese, grilled bacon, honey and banana, even humble old butter and jam. I remember being a kid and jam sandwiches just seemed mean and tasteless, but jam on toast - warm melting butter, sticky jam, all yummy and comforting. What a great plan!

A Harsh Reality - Being single has it's perks - not having to share that last piece of cake, no one telling you to hurry up when getting ready, the whole bed to yourself, but it has some huge drawbacks too. I miss being touched... get your head out of the gutter now... just the general he walks past you and brushes his hand across your lower back kinda touching, the you're sitting on the couch and he picks up your feet and puts them on his lap kinda touching. I suppose it's really called intimacy, and I miss it.

Honourable Mentions - surprise visits, spotted teapots and Very Berry herbal tea, up styles, messy buns, smokey eyes and emerald green toe nails, finding any reason to inject glamour into the day - hats at noon, patent shoes and costume jewellery, waking up to two new followers this morning (edging ever closer to 100 - a giveaway is promised), striped jumpers and knee high socks, reading an entire series of books and loving them

Wednesday Wishes

2011-06-29T06:00:00.002+01:00

Today I want to wish...

...that the Irish team flying out to Turin for the Archery World Championships have an amazing time over the next few weeks.

Train hard, shoot with honour and pride for your country, and bring me back a toblerone from the airport

Terrible Tea Time

2011-06-27T16:09:00.000+01:00

I never thought that I would say this but I have lost my taste for tea. For the past three days tea does not taste good to me. The milk is too strong, the temperature is all wrong, it is just all sorts of bad. I live in a house where the days is ruled by 'Is it time for a cup of tea?' so right now I'm in no mans land.

What do you suggest? Should I persevere until my taste buds right themselves again or should I turn to something else for now?

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-06-24T11:09:00.000+01:00

I don't think there is a woman on Pinterest who hasn't seen this last photo...

Adam Levine

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-06-24T10:47:00.000+01:00

Tilda Swinton... you are incredibly beautiful and incredibly odd looking

Things I Love Thursday

2011-06-23T15:38:00.000+01:00

Black Tie Baby - This weekend I have my first ever black tie wedding to attend. Awfully excited about it all. I have it narrowed down to two outfits - a strapless black linen and knit, ruched, full length dress or a black halterneck, wide leg jumpsuit. Both have the same shoes, bag and jewellery so I really can wait until the last minute to decide. Oh and I have the most amazing head piece to wear. A friend of my mums custom made it to match my accessories - it is the most amazing piece I have ever seen. I promise to have some photos next week.

Growing Up Time - I had this discussion with some friends over the past few weeks... We are finally adults - up until very recently I have never received an invitation to a whole wedding, with the exception of one friend from my college days in Cork (D & MC, I had a fab day). Now a whole wedding to me means that you have friends who are adult enough to get married hence you are also a grown up to even know them. A few years ago I went to a rash of weddings but they were all connected with Mr T and his friends and family. This year it is my turn. Two months, three weddings, two 'plus one's' and a bridesmaids dress. This might just mean that I'm not a kid anymore.

Summer Season - Two words 'True blood', back on our screens for season 4 in just a few short days. Can't wait.

Honourable Mentions - sand between my toes, and in my shoes, and in the car, windswept hair, strawberry syrup on my 99, unexpected messages late at night, using crystal hi-ball glasses as pen holders, turquoise sweat pants and learning to enjoy running, persuading my little dog that running is good for him too, glitter nail polish, almond and coconut scones, Zumba

Quick Question

2011-06-21T14:03:00.000+01:00

Is it wrong that this is all I want to do today?

Much Love Monday

2011-06-20T11:46:00.006+01:00

Published with Blogger-droid v1.7.1

Winning the David Clarke Cup on Saturday. That Cup is looking particularly fantastic on my dresser and putting 100 points on to my Personal Best wasn't too shabby either.

Now back to work.

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-06-17T10:27:00.000+01:00

I love Cole. I love her family, her passion and most of all I loved her hair before she cut it all off. Made incredibly famous by her husbands maternity photo series shot for Pacing the Panic Room.

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-06-17T09:35:00.000+01:00

Atesh Salih, you are so hot I only need one photo to let everyone else know

Fashion Question

2011-06-15T21:26:00.000+01:00

I really want a zip-top, over-sized clutch but I don't want to pay American Apparel prices for it. Does anyone know of somewhere I could get me one of these at a more reasonable price?

Conflict

2011-06-14T21:00:00.000+01:00

source

We all know that text and sarcasm don't mix well. Not at all. In fact most humours and text don't mix well, and to be perfectly honest your text is only as good as the mood that the person your are texting is in. If they are happy, they read happy, if they are sad, they read sad, if they are angry, you're in trouble.

Consider yourself warned.

Kami Woodgrain Mug

2011-06-12T15:21:00.000+01:00

Kami Mug, designed by Masanori Oji

Beautiful

And can be yours by clicking here

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-06-10T09:01:00.000+01:00

Our Zombieland minx, Amber Heard is this weeks PGF. She has a personal motto which I adore

'Today is what I have'.

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-06-10T09:00:00.000+01:00

This week we have Josh Duhamel, I'm really looking forward to a little eye candy in Transformers: Dark of the Moon when it's released.

The next image is not safe for work ladies!

Confessional

2011-06-09T10:44:00.000+01:00

I have never eaten avocado

Wednesday Wishes

2011-06-08T17:59:00.000+01:00

This weeks wish is a simple one...

...and one that I think we can all learn from.

I wish to love the skin I'm in.

I'm very close to fulfilling this wish, I just need a little push.

Beautiful Ombre

2011-06-07T09:41:00.000+01:00

I am giving serious thoughts to dying my hair for the summer months and I am really loving the idea of ombre. Since my own hair colour is black I probably wouldn't go for the brown to blonde option that seems to be doing the rounds, a la Alexia, but would maybe try going from a very dark brown to caramel. I really think that this hair colour suits wavy or curly hair so much better than straight. The texture really helps to give life to the colour and stops it looks quite so artificial.

What do you think? Do you think that it's just another hair trend, and one that has already had it's day? Or do you think it has thoughts of summer, and beach, and all things lovely still attached?

Moving Day

2011-05-31T14:58:00.000+01:00

So today is moving day - seven years of Limerick and two years of that wonderful house.

Goodbye... Halloween Parties

Goodbye... Brew?

Goodbye... A jarful of Penguins

Goodbye... Manny in our spare room

Goodbye... movies projected onto the sitting room wall

Goodbye... en suite bathroom

Goodbye... wonderfully huge wardrobe

Goodbye... 20MB broadband

Goodbye... to so many memories

Internet relations between our router at home and my laptop are not particularly good so for now it is goodbye to you too. I'll be popping back into blog-land about once a week or so.

Hugs

Burning The Midnight Oil

2011-05-30T00:09:00.000+01:00

I'm here in the office, working away on another chapter of my thesis, hoping to have something substantial to show my supervisors in the morning.

Wish me luck.

I used to do all my best work late at night when I was slogging away through my Final Design Project. I think it was mainly because of the peace and quiet. I was never one of those students who had to have a stereo on in the background while studying for my Leaving Cert, or a set of headphones plugged in while in the library. In fact, most of the time, if you saw me with my headphones on it was just to block out some of the noise going on around me.

Have you ever noticed that people are less likely to bother you if you have headphones on?

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-05-27T09:04:00.000+01:00

And to keep with my True Blood obsession Alexander Skarsgard will be today's Pretty Boy

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-05-27T09:00:00.003+01:00

This weeks brings up a little closer to Season 4 of True Blood so in honor

I give you Anna Paquin as today's Pretty Girl Friday

Things I Love Thursday

2011-05-26T14:57:00.000+01:00

Wind - Now I know that a lot of people, especially fashion bloggers, are not very fond of really windy days (all that blowing about makes it pretty hard to get good outfit shots). But to me there is no bigger delight than listening to the wind howl around the house while I'm curled up inside, working. Even when I have to head out to college I love taking my hair down out of it's ponytail and letting it blow about in the wind, feeling all wild and free.

Freckle-itious - If Beyonce can have her own word then I think it's only right that there is a word put out there to describe how gorgeous people look with freckles. Our fleeting moment with some sun a few weeks back has seen a surge in the reappearance of freckles on our Irish skin. My freckles almost completely disappear every winter and reappear with a vengeance once I go back out into the sun, and my freckles aren't just a cute smattering across my nose. Oh no, I am decorated with a sweep of freckles all down the left side of my face and across my left shoulder. There is nothing symmetrical about me.

Honourable Mentions - when my dad calls over just to say hi and to see if he can help me move out some of my stuff early (it's an hour drive - love you dad), an ice cold can of 7up straight out of the fridge, re-reading my wish book, throwing out stuff that has no meaning to me anymore, lemon curd milkshakes, finally hand washing my studded green jumper and getting to wear it again, receiving wedding invitations in the post (complete with wedding stamps), reading 'The Girl Who played With Fire' and loving it, King of Skin from Lush - my skin feels amazing

Wednesday Wishes

2011-05-25T09:18:00.000+01:00

Today my wish is going to be for...

... a happy and pleasant weekend spent with my family.

What's your wish this week?

The Post College Survival Kit

2011-05-24T10:16:00.001+01:00

This morning, much to my surprise and delight, I found an email in my inbox from the wonderful and talented Sarah Von alerting me to the fact that I won a spot on the PCSK ecourse from a Freckled Nest giveaway that I had entered.

Woop woop.

This couldn't have come at a better time. Right now I'm in the process of starting to write up my Masters thesis, moving back home to save on rent, applying for some sort of relevant job to my degree and research, and generally trying to get on with my life and become a grown up. I think I'm going to need all the help I can get.

Check out the press release for the course.

College teaches us a lot of important things (keg stands! kafka! last-minute cramming!) but it doesn't necessarily prepare us for real life. Frustrated by the lack of real-world preparation she received at college, blogger Sarah Von decided to rectify this situation by creating an ecourse that would teach twenty-somethings all the things that college didn't. Combining forces with uber-bloggers Sally McGraw, Alex Franzen, Sarah Storer and Marie Jacobs, the team crafted a course that explains 401k, leases, loan consolidation and quarter-life crises in comprehensible, engaging language. Yes! Such a thing is possible!

The eight-week course covers six areas - Cash Money // Work It // Apt., Sweet, Apt. // Friends & Lovers // Style, Srsly // Existential Crisis Management // Post College Survival Story Interviews. Students get 16 weeks of access to a private blog, a 60-page work book, a private message board, four Vokle webinars with the instructors and heaps of support.

A Fashion Classic #2

2011-05-22T23:28:00.000+01:00

Three words...

... black leather jacket

Everyone (and their mother) really should have this classic staple in their wardrobe. Toughen up a sweet and girlie outfit - check! Cover up a little on a chilly evening - check! Add some texture to an all black ensemble - check! Look like a rock star - check!

The off duty model wears it, the yummy mummy wears it, the rock chick wears it, everybody wears it... so if everybody is wearing it why should you? You're possibly thinking to yourself 'I'm not a sheep, I don't follow trends' but this is no trend. The black leather jacket has stood the test of time, from James Dean to Agyness Dean, and it is still going strong.

I will hold my hand up and admit that I am a late comer to the BLJ, mostly because I wouldn't buy a cheap one and I couldn't afford an expensive one, but I got lucky in this years January sales and snapped up the jacket below. If you can just imagine this 'Jennifer' leather jacket in black you are onto a winner. I nabbed it from the most unlikely of places, Monsoon, and even though it was almost half off I nearly fainted at the price.

So, are you a BLJ girl or do you prefer a different classic cover up? Let me know.

Pretty Boy Friday

2011-05-20T09:05:00.001+01:00

Like a fine wine... Leonard DiCaprio just gets better with age.

Just to note, any thing before Blood Diamond doesn't count in my Leo barometer.

Pretty Girl Friday

2011-05-20T09:00:00.001+01:00

Ever since I've watched Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon I've had a crush on Zhang Ziyi.

What a stunning looking woman.

Fifty People, One Question - Ireland

2011-05-19T21:00:00.001+01:00

This is a wonderful short film shot in Galway city as part of the Fifty People, One Question series. It really makes you think...

I'm not going to give away the question before you watch the clip below but my answer will be in the comments section over the next few days.

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Things I Love Thursday

2011-05-19T09:30:00.039+01:00

Sweet And Juicy - How can anyone resist fresh fruit when the weather gets warmer? Well... cause some of it doesn't taste nice, but the rest... it tastes amazing. Yes = apples, strawberries, any melon except watermelon, pears, bananas, pineapple, mango, rhubarb. Meh = plums, peaches, nectarines, blackberries. Nah = watermelon, raspberries, blueberries, kiwis, currants, citrus fruits. What are your favourites? Any recommendations for something new for me to try?

Pretty Scents - I'm not harping on about being stuck at my desk all this week and grading exams I swear but this week I really appreciate having scented candles on my desk to make it all a little more pleasant. Even though I open the window from time to time the room still gets kinda stuffy but my Knackered Cow candles from Cowshed are really doing a wonderful job to keep me focused.

Childhood Lost - My desk is right beside the window in my room. I can feel the sunshine on my back as I work. I can also listen to the rain when the day turns showery, but yesterday I spent most of the day listening to kids playing out on the street. Their yells and laughter was so soothing. It really brought back memories of my childhood and the games we used to play outside. I really think that the generations that have followed ours are missing out just a little because of how easily accessible digital entertainment and how often it is chosen over simple playing in the fresh air.

Honourable Mentions - Kimberley biscuits (thank you Raymy), friends who come home from college and make me tea just cause they saw a post on Facebook, red glitter toenails (although I know that it will be a nightmare to get all the glitter off), seeing how long my hair is when it's straightened - almost half way down my back, thank you very much, still pinning away to my hearts content, THIS post from Pacing The Panic Room made me laugh out loud, I love HER hair and scarf so much, my first punnet of strawberries this season - so sweet and juicy, THIS video kept me entertained for quite a while - Nick Pitera is so talented