Friday the 13th...

As it's been a while since I have written anything, I just felt that I had to write something on what has been happening in the past  few days. Just felt like I had to put pen to paper (or finger to keyboard)!

So last Friday, Friday the 13th,unlucky for some. I had been so busy trying to be positive and hopeful after a hard week. I had been to a mental health nurse and finally discovered the root of my depression and anxiety and how to treat it. I finally felt positive, could take a breather and say yes this will get better and could start to look forward to my holidays soon, Christmas and what the new year might bring. I went on boohoo looking at holiday clothes, my sister came home and we listened to old songs from years ago, recalling our memories that went with the cringe rap or pop songs. All of a sudden she told me to look up sky news online, something was after happening in Paris. I expected a natural disaster, bad car crash, anything but what I saw. The next few hours were a blur. In years to come I will probably be discussing it with my children or grandchildren when they study it in history. It's strange, you always remember exactly what you were doing when something like this happens. Along with probably the millions or billions glued to the TV watching terrified people screaming and running away, gunshots, explosions, armed guards storming around, I felt like I was watching a horror film. Not something that was happening only 1200km away. 

The last few days have shed light on what exactly happened that night, though I think that the only people that will ever really know are the unfortunate that happened to be there. After the Charlie Hebdo attacks people were shocked, alarmed, frightened.That people could be so savage to kill innocent civilians, even when the attackers seemed to have a motive for their killing, insane and all as it was. But last friday? what harm could an innocent woman celebrating her birthday with a few drinks at a cafe have done? A man meeting friends for a glass of wine after a hard week of work, Friendly waitresses only doing their job, and young people enjoying a rock concert with partners and friends. They killed over 129 people, injured over 350, god knows how many grieving their dead and billions shaken and frightened. I have read so many different witness reports by now, I can't even begin to imagine the physical and mental abuse those people went through but as one survivor Isobel Bowdery said, that the people that died did not die thinking about those vultures, but of their loved ones. That and the fact that so many people acted heroically in the city after the attacks restored my faith in humanity. You always wonder if ( god forbid) you are faced with such a situation how would you react and I hope that I could act the same. 

 No matter how much I have researched ISIS I cannot fathom them out. They claim it is an act of religion, what kind of religion gives a man, any man the right to kill an innocent disabled person in a wheelchair watching a concert, unable to defend his or her self? Or the right to send millions of people from their homes as refugees, to seek a life elsewhere, some ending in tragedy with small children? Will we ever see an end to their madness? I thank god I am not in a war torn country like Syria and those around it engulfed in war and combat and I can't even begin to imagine it.

As well as the attack in France, there were attacks in Beirut and Lebanon and natural disasters in Mexico and Japan, in one day alone 115200 people were killed. 

I suppose the point of this blog is this; last Friday's events made me treasure some of the smaller things in life, having a family to sit around with, a safe fiance, friends and family. I am so thankful for that. I am also so proud of the french people, how they have stood together in solidarity, even though they are so frightened of what could happen next. That in itself is retaliation against the vermin that tried to stamp it out. I have always loved the city of Paris, I have great memories there, from singing cheesy french songs with class mates, eyeing up french men, making it to the top of the Eiffel tower and the beautiful view, tiny hotel rooms and eating ice cream out of a paper bag to going back with my boyfriend and understanding why it is called the city of love. What has happened will never taint my view of Paris and I sincerely hope that it will strengthen the Parisians and not stop them from enjoying the life they are famous for and strengthen those against Isis. 

Treasure those you love and always be thankful for every day you wake up with good health. Go out when you can, buy that dress, those shoes, go to that match, that concert, make up with that friend or sibling. Because nobody ever knows when it is their last. Live life to the fullest and don't regret anything :) 

#jesuisparis

#prayforparis

#prayforworld

Thanks for reading :)

Sandy.S

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Monthly natters

Hey again everyone! So this is going to be a rather odd blog but I felt I had to share some of my 'inspirational insights' this week :P

So I was browsing instagram this week, it's my new obsession. Reading some of the quotes about friendship and trusting people I realized so many of them clicked with me! I used to think losing contact with people was a bad thing and I had to have so many friends for Facebook and social media. Well, getting older really made me see the light with this fact.

As you get older you will notice your circle start to get smaller and you won't see people as much and that is just a part of life. People change! As you go through different stages you meet more people and make more friends. Everyone does.

As well as that I realized Social media is great and exciting but it's a fantastic mask for people's insecurities. You might see a post about how happy someone is with such a person, a job, a product, etc or how they are so fit now, have a new car, graduated. But in most cases they literally just post it to make others jealous, to get likes, to fit in to what social media perceives is the norm. Everyone does it, including myself! How sad is it that this has become reality? I got the luas one day to Dundrum from Stephens green and everyone was on their phone, on facebook or twitter. Not that long ago I was getting the train to heuston and a man sat down beside me from Portlaois to talk to me, despite the fact I obviously had my earphones and iphone out at the time. Yet I don't regret talking to him one bit! It passed the journey and it was a nice conversation. One day when we're old and the next generation take our steps, we will regret not looking around us more often, not seeing and doing more with our time than  looking at a blue screen for at least 10 of the 24 hours in a day. When was the last time anyone actually left their phone at home. went to town and actually smiled and talked to people on the street?

It can also be such a great place for people called 'keyboard warriors' or 'trolls'. I think everyone has plenty of experience with these people, myself included. I have been subjected to people criticizing my opinion, my work, etc all on social media but I guarantee they wouldn't say it to me in person. In fact I actually came face to face to some of these 'warriors' who accused me of being the reason for a relationship break up, when they themselves were the reason. I was called every name under the sun and people were told by this person that I was the one emailing abusive things! Yet face to face they looked away quickly and didn't say a word. It is so easy for people to act all tough and  aggressive over Facebook. But complete cowards in real life! Some will also use others who claim to be your friend to find out information for these people. Again I have been prey to this too often. But mistakes in life are lessons learnt! People who abuse you like these are just petty and jealous and better off ignored! You should try to understand them and pity them rather then feel anger towards them!

For all my ranting I will be the first to tell you I couldn't live without them :P

 This is just the way the world has gone and people have to adapt to the changes around them. That is just human nature, Social media can be fun and helpful for jobs or meeting old friends etc, but we have to remember to 'check out' the odd time too and actually speak to those around us. 

Rant over :P 

Any opinions on this yourselves? Feel free to leave them down below :) 

Thanks for reading!

Sandy.S

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New Brush set and amazing new brush cleaning tip!

Hey everyone!

 So last week I was at the ploughing championships in Ratheniska. Contrary to what people believe it isn't just aul lads, cows and tractor everywhere. But it caters to everyone. There were so many shops and stalls and arcades. It was tough to walk around and I more than likely didn't see half of what was there, but it was such good fun! So, at the retail arcade, I went in and saw a beautiful tan organic stand selling some amazing brushes. The kind woman behind the table was shouting out offers and I overheard her saying the brush set was down to 25€ from 100€. Usually any brush sets there are knock offs but the quality in these brushes was undeniable.  I purchased and so far am so happy with it! If you happen to be going tomorrow I would suggest checking this out :)

 Inside it has: 

"Large powder brush: A full, soft brush designed to achieve a light base application.

Flat Bronzer brush: Use for an all over powder application when looking for medium to heavy coverage.

Angled blush brush: Use to contour the cheek bones with colour when applying blush.

Foundation brush: Allows for smooth and even application of liquid foundation or creams.

Eye base: Use to apply an eyeshadow base colour over the entire eyelid.

Lip definer brush: Use to apply lipstick or liner to the lips and to enhance definition.

Crease brush: Designed to give a light or heavy contour application to the eye crease.

Precision camouflage brush: A precision tool used to apply concealer to the smallest, most difficult areas such as skin imperfections.

Dual brow/eyeliner brush: Use wet or dry with eyeshadow or a cream liner to define the lash line and the brows.

Smudge brush: Designed for applying eyeshadow near the lash line and for blending and contouring to create a smokey effect."

If you want to look at this and maybe some of their other products have a look here :D

http://www.skinlogiconline.com/

Now for the amazing cleaning tip! 

So I had tried all of the usual tips to get the stain out of one of my favourite blending brushes and eventually I decided to try a soap, rather than soapy liquid or gels. An actual bar of soap :) So I reached for a lush sultana soap( I love the smell! but any soap will do) and started scrubbing the brush hair with it and then running it under the hot water. I kept scrubbing the brush hairs and running it under the tap and the hair was soon back to it's original colour of white! :D I was so happy with the outcome that I nearly used the whole bar for all of my brushes. They look as good as new again :D so happy! 

'sultana' soap by lush :) 

I hope this helps if you are looking for something cheap and effective :D 

Thanks for reading!! 
Sandy.S
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Back to videos!

Hey everyone, so I have finally discovered a way to make more videos. With a broken comp, little internet and an old camera, I did it! Dedication :P 

SO if you could all have a look and let me know what you think, I would be so greatful :D

Have a click and a look down below...

My video :*

So excited!! 

Also, suggestions for a new youtube/blog name? Or is it ok? I'd appreciate some feedback :) 

Thanks guys :* :* 

Sandy.S

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Urban Decay Smoky Palette

So, I finally got my hands on the long awaited Urban Decay Smoky Palette. 

Excitement!

So what do I think of the highly anticipated sequel? 

I would give it a 3/5.

 I have tried a few looks by now and even though I do like it, I wouldn't leave the house with just this and no other, unlike naked 1 or 3... I feel like I would need to bring some more mattes with me, even though it has some beautiful colours combined  in the one palette. It is definitely a palette you would keep for occasion wear or nights out. Or if you're brave and like wearing dramatic makeup 24/7 :P It has by far my favourite metallic eyeshadows, but I prefer the one or three for the mattes :) 

The colours, although they claim to be brand new, are very similar to some recent colours in other Urban Decay palettes. 

Smoky Palette's high and dirty sweet very similar to...

Naked 1's sin and half baked.

However I do lie it and highly recommend for creating that beautiful smoky eye!

Here's one I did earlier :) 

A 'how to' will follow up soon :) 

Thanks for reading guys!! 

Sandy.S

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Autumn Must haves/trends/wishlist 2015

So it is already Autumn, though it is not much of a surprise here in Ireland with the crazy weather we have been having lately, especially in the west :( 

I have recently been browsing the web, magazines and all websites possible to see what we can expect to come our way in the beauty and fashion industry, I have to say I am very excited! :D

So far in cosmetics I  am seeing plenty of what are called '90's lips', basically berry coloured lips, bronze eyeshadows rather than gold and silver, naturally flushed cheeks and an easy dramatic eye with plenty of crazy liner.

In terms of fashion, it's all about tassels, fringes, bold prints, burgundy, tan suede, denim and plenty of monochrome. It's looking like we're staying in a step back to the 60's and 70's, with a futuristic twist. The pastels have been taken away for the sale racks and burnt oranges, coppers and burgundy are creeping in. I love this time of year :D 

According to Primark, the transition to Autumn will see inspiration from 'the exotic souks of Morocco - bright tiles prints and intricate linework - while elements of traditional 70s paisley also come into play, especially when it comes to blouses and cut-out shoulder smock dresses. Despite many pieces within the collection looking minimalist and clean-cut, texture and print can still be achieved through layering with tribal printed capes and subtly fringed kimonos.'

Primark Autumn 2015

I cannot wait! 

Below are some examples of Boohoo's new collection, hello boho vibes! 

For makeup trends I have located some gorgeous new products coming soon to a shop near you! I am very excited about these :) 

First off is the maybelline color sensational creamy mattes lipstick. I am so excited to try some out, they come in 8 shades from nude to scarlet. Have to give these a try!

The Maybelline Master concealer. I have always loved Maybellines concealers and cover sticks and I hope this will be no different! 

Maybelline's Fit me Range. I wasn't able to just narrow down to one, but after the revamping of the excellent fit me range I just had to include them all! I have tried their balance stick and powder and was so upset when I ran out. With new formulas especially for dry and oily skin, they really are catering for all. There is even a questionnaire online of how to find the best fit. Get me to boots!

Next up is Catrice.

I just need a moment to appreciate these...How pretty does all of this look? And the great thing is...you could buy all of these and not be bankrupt! Just look at the rich purples and nudes. I especially cannot wait to try the foundation and deluxe eye palette. Catrice are really bang on trend this Autumn. Wait until I review some of these!

Of course I have to review this. The Urban decay long awaited naked Smoky Palette. Personally I haven't bought this yet, but I am going to as soon as I can. God bless  my sister for giving me a voucher for my birthday :D I think the colours are very similar to those in previous palettes, despite the different names. Still, I love the look of it, the gorgeous various shades in metallic and matte, Can't wait to try some gorgeous looks with this. 

In Homecare I have to say Penneys always win for me, but I like to browse Argos too :) Autumn winter is cosy season, cups of tea by the stove, slipper socks, fuzzy blankets. But it's also time for students to go back to school and college, Penneys are taking care of that :)

All items in both pictures range from 2€ to about 12€...where would you be going? :D 

Here are some of my favourites from the new homecare range :D I am so excited! Rose gold is a big trend this Autumn, perfect for a girly room. 

I hope you all enjoy my recommendations :D If you try any of the products let me know! 

Hopefully I will have some reviews soon <3

Thank you for reading!

Sandy.S

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A guide to Positivity

Hey guys, so this is a bit of an odd blog :D 

But I got to thinking lately about the toxic negativity people are letting into their lives and what it's doing to them. 

With depression and anxiety on the rise, the world is fast becoming a place dominated by people's image and self obsession. Nobody wants to be themselves anymore! Everyone wants to be Kim Kardashian, or Khloe, have the perfect body, perfect abs, fitness, perfect life etc etc. Everytime I go on my social media accounts all I see is #health, #fitfam, #lifegoals, #hyliejennerlips and so much more. What happened to just being YOU? People have become so obsessed with being fit and beautiful, drawing eyebrows, lips, contouring in cheekbones and a cleavage (I'm guilty of this myself) destroying our bodies with protein shakes and fast food, before agonising at the gym. Meanwhile not realising what this is doing to our bodies. 

Call me old fashioned, but whatever happened to the odd treat, can of coke or bag of munchies and just exorcising regularly? Rather than gorging on peanut butter and fast food and breaking your legs doing squats and burpees the next day. If you ever take a look at our grandparents era, they worked and worked all day, in the bog or the fields etc (I'm sure we've all heard the stories) they walked everywhere and they only had so many meals a day. Yet they had plenty of fatty bacon, apple pies and sweets. The difference is unbelievable. I tried doing it the old fashioned way for a few weeks, just cutting out the crap, sticking to a few meals a day, not stressing over it and making sure I got my daily walk in. About a week after I noticed a difference in myself and I stopped caring about other peoples bodies and weight. Everyone is made unique for a reason, not to be a carbon copy of anyone else. We each have our own finger prints, our own dna, so why do we try to be like others? Only when we realize our unique value will we be able to be positive in our own beings.

Somebody said to me not so long ago, that after they lost weight and changed their image, people noticed them way more and they got more attention on facebook. I was in shock, but I noticed it too. Every day my feed would be riddled with 'transformation tuesday' pictures of people who lost weight or toned up and they would get 100's of likes. So this is the only way to get noticed anymore?

 What is the world coming to? People might post photos or statuses to get attention, but they will start to depend on them and their insecurities will grow when they don't get enough.

Personally I am all for a person wanting to get healthier, in a natural way, but do it for yourself, not for facebook or instagram. Because you are only going to be happy if you do it for yourself. Comparing yourself to others on social media is worthless, because realistically, it is all a front! People aren't always what they post to be. So do everything in life for yourself, life is too short to do it for anyone else. Here are some steps I have to being happier and being more positive n your life. 

It is hard to transform into a positive person overnight and even the happiest of people aren't always happy. Everyone has bad and good days. But the trick to overcome the bad, is to remember that good days happen and will happen again. Think of a day you were extremely happy and remember what you felt. You will feel that happy again. 

Be thankful for you, have an attitude of gratitude! Try to be grateful for everything good that does happen in your life. This boosts the positivity. Slowly you will start to notice good things happen to you more and more and you will appreciate them.. Be thankful for your life, your health, friends, family, job, etc, even that nice cuppa you made at lunch! It will make you appreciative of every thing.

Cut any negative people out of your life. Negative people feed on negativity like oxygen, they literally live just to see you unhappy. Just like pulling out a thorn from your skin, you have to get rid of what does you harm. Even just spending less time with them and more with people that bring out the best in you will help. Delete them off facebook, block them, etc. Because some people literally live to see you upset and want to do better than you. Once they see you ignoring them and living a happy life, they try what they can to break that bubble. 

Preach positivity to others. If you teach others around you what you have learned, they will start looking on you as a dependable person and someone to help them. It will even make you feel helpful and proud of yourself. Even sending a nice quote you saw on pinterest to them may brighten their day and make you feel good for helping them. 

Have positive friends. When you grow older, you will start to notice your circle of friends get smaller. People change, as will you , it's all part of growing up. But it is also necessary to cut any negative friends from your life and keep the positive ones closer.They will grow with you and nurture you, rather than dragging you down.

Some people will always try to drag you down or talk about you and spread negativity like a plague.  It is best to just ignore it and stay away. Unfortunately some people get dragged down into the negativity and can't think for themselves, Stay positive always and be yourself! I myself have dealt with this situation plenty of times recently and always it is the same negative person coming back to cause drama, Just ignore it and move on like I have!  

I hope this blog helped you if you are feeling down and lacking positivity :) I just had some issues myself with people and decided to take my own advice of preaching to others :P 

Hope you enjoyed ! 

Sandy.S

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