What I Would Do If I Won The Lottery

The Lotto has been a popular topic of discussion lately and this is because 13 million euro was won in the National Lottery recently and 66 million was won by an Irish person in the Euro-millions.  This is money I can only dream of and I'm sure there are many others like me who would just love to get their hands on even a fraction of that dosh!  All this lottery talk had me thinking about what I would actually do with the money if I won it.  Where would I even start?  It's a tough decision but here's just a few things I came up with.  Enjoy!

1. Travel the world.
2. Go on every cruise possible.
3. Go on a MAJOR shopping spree (New York, Paris, Milan..?)
4. Build my own personal library.
5. Give some money to charity.
6. Give some money to my family.
7. Build a house.
8. Buy a car (after I've finished my lessons and passed my driving test of course.)
9. Buy a grand piano and learn how to play it.
10. Probably end up paying someone to give me advice on how to spend what's left.

The thoughts of all that money is making me want it so badly right now!  Fingers crossed it will happen in the future.  It could solve all of life's problems (where money is involved.)  These are just a few ideas I've come up with but really with all that money the list could be endless.  Until next time... I'll see ya when I see ya!

Book Review: The Great Gatsby

For the longest time I have wanted to start reading classics and as an avid reader I feel like I should have started years ago.  So for Christmas I got The Great Gatsby which I was delighted about because it is one of my favourite films and is also one of the books I want to read before I turn 21.  So without further ado here's my review on The Great Gatsby.

Reading the book will make you appreciate the film so much more because they are very similar.  I'm one of those people who is almost always disappointed when books are made into films because they never do the books any justice.  In this case the book and the film can go hand in hand because everything is almost exactly the same; the storyline, the character's personalities (but obviously Leo couldn't have got it wrong) and even some of the lines from the book are identical to those in the film.

If you don't know anything about The Great Gatsby it's written by F. Scott Fitzgerald and the story takes place in New York in the 1920s.  It follows Nick Caraway who moves to New York and ends up living beside the mysterious Jay Gatsby who lives in a mansion and throws regular extravagant parties.  Exaggerated rumours are continuously flying around about who Gatsby really is but he is just a man who is deeply in love with Nick's cousin Daisy.  It soon becomes Nick's job to reunite the two lovers but of course it is not straight forward.  Then again is any love story straight forward?

The Great Gatsby is a very easy read.  It's short and concise with simple yet elegant language.  The story line itself is easy to follow with no complicated plot twists.  If you love anything to do with the 1920s lifestyle then you'll love this.  It's a story that really tugs at the heart strings and if you're thinking of getting into the classics then I would highly recommend this as a starting point.  Go on and give it a go old sport!

There you have it, my review of The Great Gatsby.  I hope this gave you some kind of an insight into what the book is like and taught you that the classics are not scary, outdated and complicated.  If you want a break from the crazy stories we read nowadays then definitely read a classic.  Until then I'll see ya when I see ya!

Things You Notice When You Start College

Starting college is a major milestone in life.  It's a new beginning full of new adventures and experiences.  You also realise that there is a bigger world out there (especially if you've been living in such a small and quiet area like me.)  I'm about to start my second semester in college and since September there are many things I've noticed about college life and things I just missed before.  So in this post I thought I would share some of those things with you.  Enjoy!

Courtesy of: WeHeartIt

You become an internet addict!:

As if you weren't addicted enough you become more so!  Firstly, you want to be able to connect with the new people you meet so social media is important, not to mention all the group chats you will join over time.  There are also apps like Yik Yak which become ridiculously addictive especially when you actually have to do work.  Secondly, you have to keep in contact with your friends from home so you check in on Facebook every half an hour to see how their new lives are getting on.  Thirdly, since all of your assignments are done on a computer, Netflix, Facebook and YouTube are always a click away.  Basically you will find any excuse to use the internet.

People Are Nice:

Having to meet new people can be daunting and you almost convince yourself that they won't have any time for you.  Not true!  Very quickly you realise that everyone is in the same boat as you and they want to make new friends as much as you do.  So if you're queuing up for a coffee or in a lecture hall try to pick up a conversation with the person beside you.  You'll be surprised, you could make a new best friend.

Secondary School Was Worse Than You Realised:

Okay, that might sound a bit harsh but it's kind of true.  Yes I did meet my best friends there and I do have good memories from my years in school but college is just so much better.  You have way more freedom.  Everyday is different.  There is no monotonous 9-4 with hours of study and homework on top.  If you don't leave everything to the last minute then everything goes smoothly.  You make loads of new friends, can take part in loads of clubs and societies and you can go out in the middle of the week which you wouldn't dream of doing in school.

A Lot Of The Things You Learned In School Are Now Useless:

The hours and hours I spent studying Higher Level Maths in school and now I use none of it and will never use it in the future.  Do I still remember the reproductive system of a plant?  Nope!  Do I need to remember it?  Nope!  Even the things you thought would come in handy are no good.  I'm studying English as part of my degree and it's completely different to the English I did in school.  All my school essays can go in the bin to be honest.  I've lost count of the amount of times I have questioned my secondary school education.

Going Out Every Night Is Not All It's Cracked Up To Be:

I love going out and having a good time with friends but it is extremely tiring.  It's not fun when you don't get back to you apartment until 2 in the morning and then you have a lecture and 9 the next day (technically 7 hours.)

College Is Crazy Expensive:

If you thought the price of secondary school books were bad wait until you get to college.  They are ridiculous!  Then you have to pay for food and transport on top on that and attempt to have a social life.  It's not easy.  You will soon fall in love with bargains and anything cheap.

Plagiarism Is The Worst Crime You Can Ever Commit:

Once you start college plagiarism is a word you will very quickly become familiar with.  From day one lecturers will remind you again and again not to commit this terrible crime or you can kiss your college days goodbye.  You also get extremely confused by all the different types of referencing out there and wish your college would just stick to one.  It scares the crap out of you at the beginning but once you learn how to avoid plagiarism you don't worry so much but you feel like you need to reference everything you say and write just to be on the safe side.

So overall college is great.  It's a place where Harry Potter can be incorporated into any lecture (true), you are made aware of your accent and you try to find your self and stand out from the crowd (but not too much because you don't want to get roasted on Yik Yak.)  I hope you have enjoyed this post and until then I'll see ya when I see ya!

Town vs. Country

Hello!  I'm back after my four month hiatus.  Life just kind of got in the way what with college and trying to settle into new surroundings.  Since I'm nice and settled now I thought I would pick up where I left off and write my blog again because I was starting to really miss it.  Hopefully I will be able to put up regular posts again full of fresh new content (and a fresh layout if you hadn't already noticed).  So without further ado, let's get started!

I will always be a country girl at heart but because I've started college I am now living in an urban area.  Since moving from the country side to the town I have noticed quite a few differences between both of them; some positive and some negative.  So in this blog post I thought I would discuss some of those differences with you.  Enjoy!

Courtesy of: WeHeartIt

WiFi everywhere!!

Yeah so obviously this is one of the most important differences.  Trying to get WiFi in the country side is like trying to get a phone signal in the middle of nowhere.  This may be the 21st century but you still need to hold your phone up to the heavens in order to get any kind of signal.  If you are lucky enough to get some you might be waiting a good five minutes for you Facebook news-feed to load.  In a town or city you can go into almost any shop, college campus or public transport and you have free and fast WiFi.  It's amazing.

Public Transport

It's only when you actually start to use it on a regular basis that you realise how much public transport there is and how many people use it.  Whenever I'm in the car I'm really conscious of the number of buses that are also on the road.  Plus, public transport is extremely convenient for getting from place to place.  Even though it can be a pain at times to use I wish there was something like it in the country side.  Instead I'm under pressure to start learning how to drive and I really should do something about that soon.

Courtesy of: WeHeartIt

The Social Life

My social life at home is non-existent, especially since the majority of my friends live half an hour away (this is where public transport would be handy).  When I'm in college I'm within walking distance from my friends and also within walking distance from the night life.  Feeling bored?  Just walk over to your friends apartment.  Feeling bored in the country side?  Tough, read a book or something!

Personal Appearance

This is just my personal opinion but I feel as though it's not really acceptable to look to casual when you're walking around an urban area.  At home in the country side you'll find me in tracksuit bottoms and a hoodie.  Not very attractive I know but I'm comfortable.  In college I wouldn't dream about going out in public without a nice pair of jeans and a nice top of jumper and some kind of makeup on.  It is a bit annoying sometimes to have to but in the extra effort but at the same time I feel like I'm getting somewhere in life.

Freedom

I feel like I have more freedom living in a town.  I can go where ever I want to easily (public transport) and I can be whoever I want to because no one knows who I am.  In the country side everyone knows you and you end up acting more reserved.  In the town you're allowed to be a bit crazier and it's perfectly normal!

Noise

I'm lucky enough with my college accommodation that there isn't much noise but there is still the odd plane flying overhead or train bustling by and of course many more cars than you would find in the country side.  It takes a bit of getting used to when you've listened to nothing but silence at night for nineteen years.

So those are just a few differences that I have noticed since my move to an urban area.  I hope you like this post and could relate to some of the things mentioned.  Until next time (hopefully sooner that four months) I'll see ya when I see ya!

My First Few Days Of College

The boot of the car was full to be brim on Sunday afternoon with bags and bags of my belongings.  Surprisingly enough I had slept well the night before and was now ready to just get in the car and go.  The journey up to the college flew by and on a few occasions we passed other cars in which the back seats were bulging with duvet covers and pillows: a true sign of a college kid!

Unfortunately I didn't get a place in on-campus accommodation so I'm now staying in Diggs.  At first I was a little unsure of how this would work out, living with a family I didn't know seemed a bit strange to me and I didn't know how well I was going to fit in.  I needn't have worried though because the family I am staying with are so lovely and they make me feel right at home!  Once my parents had left me behind and started the journey back home there was a discussion of dinner, the usual family thing.  What were we going to eat?  After much deliberation it was decided that we would just get takeaway.  I wasn't complaining at all and so we indulged in Apache pizza and a nice glass of wine.  (There were no children around at the time.)  It was a great way to be welcomed into the household.

The next morning I was a bag of nerves!  I had been relatively calm the night before but now it was starting to feel a bit real.  I had to force myself to eat breakfast and remember how to get going properly.

Step 1:  Eat breakfast.

Step 2:  Figure out what food you need to bring for lunch.

Step 3:  Figure out what you're going to wear and dress yourself.

Step 4:  Put on a bit of makeup to make yourself look someway decent and brush your teeth.

Step 5:  Leave the house and try to make your way to the campus without getting lost.

Once I arrived at campus everyone in my orientation group were already chatting away to eachother and I felt so lost and worried I wouldn't be able to mix with anyone.  When orientation went on throughout the day everyone conversed with eachother with the usual questions:  What's your name, where are you from, what are you studying etc. and I realised I was going to be ok.  Everyone was in the same boat and didn't know that many people either so I wasn't alone and I met a lot of genuinely nice people.  Making new friends was a lot easier than I thought it would be.

Overall orientation was overwhelming.  There were so many talks to go to and so much information to absorb.  I began to panic thinking that maybe college wouldn't be for me.  Had I made a huge mistake?  It wasn't a nice feeling but I think it's normal to feel that way.  I've only spent two days in college.  I need to give myself a chance but I'm now really looking forward to this semester.

Another worry of mine was going out at night.  Because I didn't really know that many people I didn't know whether to go to any of the night time events in fear of being on my own.  I ended up going to a Lock and Key night with a few girls I had met during orientation and we actually had a really good night.  If anyone else finds themselves in this sort of situation I would say to go to as many events as possible.  As I was told, you're only a first year once and you will definitely find people to hang around with and enjoy yourself with.

I'm going to finish up this post now because it's a lot longer than I thought it would be.  Stay tuned for more updates and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

Questions I Get Asked Before I Leave For College

I'm counting down the days until I leave for college.  3 days to be exact.  I can't wait!  As the time gets nearer and nearer I get more excited but my parents get more nervous.  Lately they've been asking me a lot of questions making sure that I am fully prepared for college life and also to give themselves some piece of mind.  Here's a little taster of the questions I get asked!

1) Do you have everything you need?:  I reply the same way I did the last fifty times I've been asked this question.  I think I have everything but could you be more specific because at the same time I'm not sure.

2) Do you have enough clothes?:  A girl can never have enough clothes but I think I have enough to get by.

3) Do you have a decent pair of shoes?  You'll be doing a lot of walking:  What exactly do you mean by a decent pair of shoes?

4) What if it rains?  Then I'll bring an umbrella.

5) Do you have enough paracetamol, plasters etc.?:  Yes but you're probably going to pack a first aid kit for me anyway.

6) Is there a doctor on campus?:  Yes.

7) Is there an ATM nearby?:  Yes.

8) Do you have enough credit on your phone?:  Yes and I'll top up if I need to.

9) Do you know anyone else going to the same college?:  Not really, but then again college is for making new friends!

10) Do you know you're way around campus?:  I'll get to know my way around.  Don't worry, in a few weeks I'll know the campus like the back of my hand!

11) Do you know where the nearest supermarket is?:  Of course, I wouldn't go anywhere without knowing where Aldi/Lidl are.  They are a college students best friend.

12) You won't stay out late every night, will you?:  It's college.  I'm a fresher.  Nuff said!

13) How much food do you need to bring?:  Not much.  There's a supermarket nearby.

14) You won't buy food on campus everyday, will you?:  I don't think I will be able to afford that but that Starbucks will tempt me.

15) Do you have enough stationary?:  Yes and I'll get more if I need it.

16) Do you have enough towels and bed sheets?:  Yes.

17) Do you need anymore bags to carry all your belongings?:  I think at this stage I have more bags than belongings.

18) Do you know what time the buses run?:  Yes don't worry I won't miss the bus.

19) Do you have your registration sorted out?:  Yes, almost.

20) Are there any more fees to be paid?:  Not that I know of for the moment.

So there are 20 questions (whoa!) that I get asked regularly since I'm going to college soon.  I think I may have missed out on a few but you get the picture.  Households get so busy this time of year you'd swear the whole family were heading off to college.  With all the fuss my parents are making you'd think I was moving to Alaska and not just two hours up the road.  My mother even bought me an extendable swat to keep all the bugs away!

I hope you enjoyed this post and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

How To Deal With Over-Protective Parents

Over-protective parents are something many of us have to deal with at some stage in our lives.  We are always told that they are only looking out for us but it comes to the stage when you just get annoyed and frustrated with them.  You need your parents to understand that you can look after yourself.  The obvious response it to storm off and slam every door behind you.  That doesn't really help the situation so I thought in todays post I would give you a few tips on how to deal with over-protective parents.

1) Use indoor voices and listen:

If we are finding it difficult to get our point across to our parents we think the louder we say it the more it will sink in.  This isn't the case.  Use your indoor voice when speaking and remember to also listen to your parents.  Take in both sides of the argument and then you can compromise.  It's easier said than done but just give it a try!

2) Be organised:

Parents can be over-protective if they think we can't look after ourselves so we need to prove to them that we can.  Try to keep your room clean so they can't nag you about being untidy.  If your heading off to college like me make a list of everything you'll need before you go so your parents won't constantly ask you if you need anything else.

3) Earn their trust:

If your parents let you go out at the weekend don't go crazy and come home late or ignore all their calls.  If your going to college for the first time don't go on a rampage now that you have newfound freedom.  Your parents will only worry more and trust you less.  Try to act responsible but enjoy yourself at the same time.

4) Reassure your parents:

My parents are always reminding me that they are only at the other end of the phone if I need them.  They are always reassuring me especially now that I'm heading off to college on my own.  They don't want me to feel nervous or worried, which I'm not, but I'm sure they are.  At times the tables have to be turned and it's up to the teenager to reassure the parents.  If your worried about something tell them but if your not and you feel perfectly fine tell them that too.  Let them know that you are ready to move on and that you know they are there for you if you need them.

5) Keep you parents in the loop:

You don't need to tell your parents every single detail of your life even though they might ask for it.  Let them know what your up to because they will only worry if kept in the dark.

I hope you found this post helpful and you now know how to deal with over-protective parents.  If you can think of any other tips let me know because I'm currently struggling in this department and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya! 



Who I Am Now

During my time at school there were a few occasions when I had to write a letter to myself at the start of the year.  It could have been about future goals, what I wanted to achieve at the end of the year or even what I was thinking on that particular day.  Since I'm starting college I decided to do something similar in this post.  I want to write down a few random thoughts or things about myself the way I am now.  After a few months I'll do the same thing and compare the two so I can see what's changed in that period of time.

I think this is a very interesting exercise that you can do too.  You can write about the same things I do or you can make up your own questions.  Enjoy!

1) What song is in my head now?

Stole the show - Kyga.

2) What song have I been singing a lot lately?

Stole the show - Kyga.  (It's getting a bit ridiculous.)

3) What was the last CD I listened to?

In The Lonely Hour - Sam Smith.

4) What was the last film I watched?

Garage.

5) Favourite colour?

Rose Pink.

6) How do I feel right now?

Thoughtful.

7) Where am I?

In the kitchen at home.

8) What am I wearing?

A tracksuit bottoms and an old t-shirt.  (Flattering, I know.)

9) What kind of job do I want?

I honestly have no idea!

10) Last person I texted?

My best friend.

11) Three things I can't live without?

1. Books
2. Music
3. My Phone

12) My favourite book?

The Fault In Our Stars - John Green.

13) Currently reading?

City of Lost Souls - Cassandra Clare.  (The Mortal Instruments)

14) Last thing I ate?

Chicken and pasta.

15) An object to my right?

A chair.

16) What nail varnish am I wearing, if any?

Max Factor Glossfinity in the shade Candy Rose.

17) Something I'm looking forward to?

College.

18) Something I'm proud of?

My Leaving Cert results.

19) Something I'm scared of?

Spiders.

20) My plan for the rest of the day?

Relax at home.

So there are 20 random questions I have just answered about myself.  Feel free to answer any yourself in the comments.  I hope you enjoyed this post and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!



The Liebster Award

So it's a lovely sunny afternoon and I have been nominated for another blogger award!  I'm really excited to be nominated for the Liebster award as I have read many before and they seem like a lot of fun.  I would like to thank the lovely Emma from Heart Autumn for the nomination.  You should all definitely check out her blog!  This award is a great way of discovering starter blogs so enjoy!

The Rules:

• Thank the person who nominated you and leave a link to their blog.
• Include the Liebster sticker in your post.
• Nominate 10 bloggers who have less than 200 followers.
• Let them know they have been nominated by leaving a comment on one of their posts.
• Answer the 10 questions asked to you by the person who nominated you and leave 10 new questions for your nominees.

The Questions:

What is your number 1 wardrobe staple?

I would have to say my number one wardrobe staple are my black jeans.  They are the perfect fit, so comfy and they go with everything.

Leather jackets or denim jackets?

Leather.  I find them much comfier.

Favourite shows on Netflix?

I don't actually have a Netflix account.  I know, how am I living right now!?  If I did have Netflix I would watch Pretty Little Liars (even though social media ruined the biggest plot twist), and I would also watch The Vampire Diaries.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose?

I have always dreamed of living in France.  Preferably in the suburbs somewhere.  I would also like to go to Canada.

Instagram or Twitter?

Again, I don't have an Instagram account.  If I did I would probably choose Instagram over Twitter.  I much prefer looking at nice pictures than reading about peoples random thoughts.

Favourite Disney character and why?

Olaf from Frozen!  I don't even need to think about that one.  Olaf is the cutest Disney character of all time.  I would give him warm hugs all day!

What's the best gift you've ever received?

A Winnie the Pooh onsie that my brother got me for Christmas last year.  It's so snug and ridiculous!  I just love it!

What's your favourite make-up brand?

I would have to go with Rimmel.  I'm definitely not a make-up expert and Rimmel is just perfect for me now.

What's the last album you bought/downloaded/streamed?

In the Lonely Hour by Sam Smith and Hozier's self titled album.  I am obsessed with them both!

Summer or Winter?

This is a tough one.  I would have to go with Winter only because of Christmas and warm snug clothes.

I nominate:

• Grainne - GG
• Sydney - Doe Eyed Dreams
• Rachel - The Every Day Life Of Rachel
• Lauren - Musings Of A Flower Child
• Jordan - Daily Cup Of Jojo
• Roisin Grace - Roisin Grace
• Macy - Peonies and Passports

My Questions:

• Cats or dogs?
• Who inspires you the most?
• If you could meet one celebrity, who would it be and why?
• If you could only wear one colour for the rest of your life, what would it be?
• Who is your favourite actor/actress?
• What is your favourite app?
• What is your favourite place to eat out?
• What would be your ideal holiday?
• What's a hobby you would have liked to take up?
• What kind of blog post do you enjoy writing the most?

So there's my Liebster award all done and dusted.  I hope you enjoyed reading it as mush as I enjoyed writing it and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!





10 Reasons Why I Love Autumn

The weather recently has been very autumnal.  It's getting colder signalling that summer is well and truly coming to an end.  Although the beginning of autumn means the end of holidays and back to school there are also things to look forward to.  Autumn can be a beautiful season, you just need to look at it properly.  Not convinced?  Well don't fear because in this blog post I'm going to tell you 10 reasons why I love autumn and why I think you should love it too.  Enjoy!

1. Beautiful colours:  rich reds and oranges.
2. Woolly jumpers.
3. Hats and scarves.
4. Fluffy pyjamas.
5. Sitting by the fire again after months without it.
6. HALLOWEEN!
7. Crunchy leaves.  (Except for the common occurrence of rain which then results in a horrible pile of mush.)
8. No risk of getting burned by the sun.  (Not that it happens often anyway.)
9. Hot food.  Hot drinks.
10. Starting the countdown to Christmas BUT only after Halloween has passed!

So those are just 10 reasons why I love autumn.  What do you love about autumn?  Let me know and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!



Things To Look Forward To In College

Heading to college for the first time can be a daunting experience.  I should know because I'm currently in the process myself.  You no longer have your parents around all the time to help you.  You have to be independent and do things for yourself.  Although this is slightly scary there are also many things to look forward to and I thought I would share a few of those things with you in this post.  Enjoy!

1. Making new friends.
2. Clubs and Societies.
3. More independence.
4. Studying something you actually have an interest in.
5. Never having to look at another complicated maths equation ever again.  (Unless you're studying something that involves maths.)
6. No more teachers telling you what to do.
7. No parents telling you what to do.
8. No more annoying siblings annoying you all the time.
9. Moving away from home.
10. Not having to go to class every single day from 9-4.
11. No uniform.
12. Places to eat on campus.
13. Living in an urban area for a change.  (Shops everywhere!)
14. Feeling like a grown up when you go to the bank.
15. No more first years running up and down the hallways.
16. No more third years complaining about how their life is over because of the Junior Cert.
17. Not having to carry a tonne of books around everywhere.
18. Decorating your bedroom.
19. Grocery shopping.
20. Looking forward to seeing old friends when you come home.

I hope you enjoyed this post.  I'm sure there are plenty more things to look forward to in college but these are just a few I thought of.  If there is anything else let me know and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

I'm Going To College!

I was woken this morning around 8 o' clock by my phone, a message from CAO to be exact.  I had been offered my first choice and that was lovely news to wake up to!  I then lay in bed for a while thinking about college life before getting up to accept my offer.  I can officially say that I am going to college in September!  I can't wait!

Facebook was then alive this morning with everyone updating their education status' and letting the world know where their life was heading next.  I am so excited because it's become official.  It's a new beginning but also the end of an era.  It is only really hitting me now that I'm going to be separated from all my friends as we go down our different paths in life.  There will be no more laughs at the canteen table and no more jokes in the classroom with the people I've known for six years or longer.

I don't want to get too sentimental and emotional.  I should be happy and I am, and I'm happy for everyone who got what they wanted.  Bring on the college life!

After I accepted my place today I dropped my debs dress into the dry cleaners and braved a swarm of wasps at the recycling centre.  What a day!  So that's all I have today for this little update and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

Getting My Leaving Cert Results

Palms sweating, hearts racing, results day is nerve racking!  You can't sleep the night before and you find it difficult to eat any breakfast that morning.  You stare at the clock counting down the minutes until you have that envelope in your hands.  You've spent about fourteen years of your life in education and it all comes down to this day.  There is only one thing on your mind: will I be happy with my results?

The car journey to school was silent.  My stomach was in knots and the fact that they were talking about the results on the radio didn't help either.  As my mother drove closer to the school I could see loads of cars outside and other mothers anxiously waiting by them as there daughters went inside for the envelope.  I arrived at school at 10 o' clock on the dot, the time the results were to be collected and there was already a queue.

There were girls clutching envelopes tightly to their chests, too scared to open them and there were others crying which didn't calm my nerves at all.  Most girls left straight away and didn't stop to chat.  I was one of those people.  Once I got the envelope I raced back to the car only saying a fleeting hello and good luck to my friends.

My hands were shaking terribly as I opened the brown envelope.  I can't even remember whether I whipped out the paper quickly or pulled it out slowly.  I stared at my results for a good five minutes before speaking to my mother who was slightly worried at my silence.

The results looked good and I was happy.  I didn't want to wait around too long so I went back home straight away to properly add my points together.  Once I got the final tally I was delighted, over the moon!

Of course everyone celebrated that night!  Apart from being squashed in a massive queue outside the nightclub for half an hour it was a good night.

Congratulations to everyone who got what they wanted.  To those that didn't I'm sure it'll work out for you in the end.  Don't worry, the leaving cert doesn't define who you are.  Remember that some of the most successful people in the world never went to collage.

Until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

How To Relax/ Fall Asleep

We all have those nights when you're in bed trying to sleep but your mind is still wide awake.  You toss and turn and stare at the four walls around you for what seems like an eternity.  The time is slowly moving on as you watch every ten minute interval pass.  You're thinking to yourself, will this night ever end?

I've been having a few of those nights lately.  I've been having so many things floating around in my head.  First it was about the debs and now it's about my Leaving Cert results tomorrow.  I'm sure I'm not the only one who suffers from insomnia now and again so I though I would share a few tips and tricks on how to relax and fall asleep.  These seem to work for me so maybe they'll work for you too!

1) Have a shower in the evening:  I'm one of those people that prefers a shower in the evening.  I feel so relaxed afterwards and usually have no trouble sleeping at all.

2) Change into comfy pyjamas:  Preferably fluffy ones because they are the best!

3) Make your bed:  Nothing feels as good as getting into a freshly made bed.  There's just something about clean sheets that lets you doze off in no time.

4) Have a hot drink:  Hot chocolate or tea before bed is amazing!  Hot drinks are really soothing and help to relax the whole body.  Even if it is technically still summer you're never not in the mood for tea!  The weather is cold after all.

5) Read a book:  Whenever I feel wide awake at night I always take out a book.  I find reading is one of the most relaxing things you can do.  Take out a book that's easy to read and just lose yourself for a couple of chapters.  You forget about your own worries and think about the characters lives instead.

6) Listen to music:  Second to reading, listening to music is also one of the most relaxing things you can do.  Play some soft tunes in the background and you'll drift off in no time.

7) DON'T:  Don't stay on your phone or on the computer late into the night.  They keep your brain wired and you'll have no chance of falling asleep.  Night time is for relaxing, not tweeting!

So those are just a few things that help me relax and fall asleep.  Let me know what you do to relax and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

What I Keep In My Clutch (Debs Edition)

Debs season is officially on full swing!  I had mine on Wednesday and it was definitely one of the best nights of my life so far!  Good food, great company and amazing style, what more could you want?  Apart from the dress, shoes and jewellery, a clutch bag is also an important part of your outfit.  It's where you keep all the essentials for the night.  It has to look good with your dress and be practical at the same time.  

One of the most difficult things to decide on is what to put in it.  Most clutch bags don't fit a lot of things so this is where common sense comes in handy.  What do I really need to carry?  If you're still struggling in this department, fear not!  In this blog post I'm going to tell you what I carried just to give you a few ideas and help you along a little.

First of all, my clutch bag was a lovely silver colour with tiny silver gems along the middle.  I bought it in an accessories shop called Tiffany.  It also had a silver chain attached to put it on my shoulder if I wanted.

Tickets:  The tickets are essential.  You paid a lot of money for them so it wouldn't be any good turning up without them and then not being let inside.  Although, to be honest nobody collected my tickets so you could be lucky but I don't think I would risk it.

ID:  Again I didn't need to use my ID on the night but you never know when you could be the unlucky one who gets asked for it.  It never hurts to be extra prepared!

Money:  When do you not need money?  No matter what you are doing, never leave the house without money.  The debs is no exception.

Blotting Sheets:  I wouldn't say that these are essential but they definitely come in handy.  I had never used them before but since the debs was coming up I decided to give them a go.  No one wants a shiny face in pictures.  The great thing about blotting sheets is that not only do they remove the shine but they don't remove the makeup!

Concealer:  My makeup lasted all night.  I don't know how but it did.  In case you're one of those people whose makeup always melts off their face concealer is a must.  Touch up in the bathroom every now and again and no one will know the difference!  My go to concealer is the Rimmel Wake Me Up concealer and I use it in the shade 10 Ivory.

Lipstick:  Lipstick just can't stay on all night.  It needs to be topped up so make sure you have it in your clutch.  The lipstick I wore was the No. 7 Moisture Drench lipstick in the shade Sugar Plum, a gorgeous pinky purple colour.

Your Phone:  I don't think anyone would forget to bring their phone anywhere since they are pretty much glued to our hands these days.  Phones are essential for taking pictures so you can look back on the memories and also to call anyone in an emergency.  Hopefully there won't be any emergencies.  Always remember not to spend the whole night on your phone.  Be happy with the company around you on the night.  You don't need to communicate with anyone else.

There you have it.  Those were the things I kept in my clutch for my debs.  I hope you found this post helpful and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

Review: Breaking Bad

I'm not one for watching a lot of television series but when my brother bought the box set of Breaking Bad I thought "why not?".  It soon became part of the family routine.  Every night my dad, my brother and I would watch at least two episodes.  We became hooked and got so involved in the storyline and the characters.  It was widely discussed at the dinner table: our thoughts on last nights episode or our guesses for the next.  It was much to the annoyance of my mother I'm sure!

We finished all six seasons, sitting at the edge of our seats throughout the whole final episode.  It's been about a week and for the first time in my life I'm experiencing that withdrawn feeling.  I don't know what to do with myself anymore!  To fill in some time I thought I would give my opinion on the whole Breaking Bad series without giving too much away!

If you haven't seen it, it's basically about a high school chemistry teacher who has cancer and who struggles with money problems.  To help his family escape these troubles he decides to start cooking meth in secret and finds himself being dragged deeper and deeper into the dangerous drug dealing business.

The first season is one of my favourites.  The main character, Walter White, is no naive and clueless about dealing drugs.  Every situation he finds himself in is hilarious.  He eventually teams up with a past pupil of his, Jesse Pinkman, and together they cook the best meth around.

Throughout the whole series Walt and Jesse have dealings with many interesting characters including a dodgy lawyer, Saul Goodman, who I love, and many unpredictable and scary kingpins.  I was always kept on tenterhooks!

I found one season in particular quite slow and a little boring.  I found myself wondering if I would be able to finish it.  I needn't have worried because season five and six are the best of them all.  Things get really heated up and there is much tension and suspense.

The character development is incredible!  You find yourself hating the majority of the characters at some stages and completely drawn to them in others.  Each character is so unique with their own individual backgrounds which keeps everything interesting.  Although they are each so different their stories tie together seamlessly.

I would highly recommend you watch Breaking Bad.  It is truly gripping!  The storyline is incredible and will easily get you hooked.  I hope you enjoyed this review.  Let me know of any other series you think I should watch and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

10 Questions I Get Asked On The Lead-Up To The Debs

The debs/prom is a big deal to some.  It's the perfect excuse to go all out and spend loads of money in order to look fabulous.  Once debs fever sets in family and friends wait in anticipation for the day to come.  They become more excited than the actual débutante and so they constantly ask questions making sure that everything is in order so you can have a perfect day!  Here is just a few examples of those questions which I'm sure many people will be able to relate to.

1) Who are you bringing?:  A friend.  (Usually followed by the "yeah, sure" look).  Seriously, the person I bring to my debs does not have to be my potential future husband!

2) What's your dress like?:  So I give them all the details: colour, style etc.

3) Are your shoes comfortable?:  Yes, just like I've said every day since I got them.

4) Have you tried on your shoes today?:  Yes, mother, don't worry!  I'm giving them plenty of practise!

5) Do you need any more accessories?:  No, I think I have enough.  I want to look elegant not like a disco ball!

6) What time are you're hair/makeup appointments?:  Don't worry, I know the times, I won't be late!

7) What exactly is happening on the day?:  Do you want me to print off an itinerary for you?

8)  Will there be a photographer there?:  Yes and I'll make sure to show my best side!

9)  What's on the menu?:  So many delicious things!!

10) Will there be teachers present?:  Yeah...? (don't create any suspicion!) 

I hope you enjoyed this little blog post!  Crazy times are upon us!  Can you relate to any of these?  Did I miss out on any other questions?  Let me know and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

100 Followers!

I thought I would put up a small blog post for you today just to say thank you!  I've reached my first blogging milestone of 100 followers!  I still can't believe it.  Hopefully there will be many more milestones reached in the future.

It makes all this worthwhile knowing that there are people out there that actually want to read my blog.  I love writing it and reading all the lovely comments.  I hope you enjoy my blog just as much as I do!

There will be plenty more posts to look forward to in the future.  September is getting closer and closer and I will officially be a college student living away from home.  There should be a few interesting posts about that!

If you're not following me already you can do so by clicking here.  Thanks for stopping by and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

How To Shop For A Debs/Prom Dress!

It's nearly August and that means that debs season is almost upon us.  Over the next month girls will be getting glammed up to the last and guys will be looking classy in their suits.  A débutante ball is a rite of passage.  You are leaving school and your friends and are preparing for the real world.  It is the last night that everyone you've gone to school with over the past 5/6 years will be together so you want it to be a good night.

Unusually for me, I left everything last minute.  My debs is next week and I only bought my dress today!  Buying a debs dress is tough work.  You want it to be perfect and you want to look fabulous.  I've spent the last two weeks traipsing through shop after shop, boutique after boutique trying to find that perfect dress.  Since I now have my dress (thank the Lord!) I thought I would share my new found wisdom with you on how to shop for a debs dress (because I'm obviously an expert now)!

Discuss With Friends:

Make a group chat on Facebook or find some other way to easily communicate with your friends to discuss dresses.  Give each other advice on colours, shapes and shops to look into.  Without giving too much away, tell each other the colour and brand name of your dress.  You wouldn't want to turn up to your debs in the same dress now, would you?  That would be a bunch of awkward!

Schedule Your Shopping Trips:

Pick a day you want to go and look for a dress, pick the town you want to go to and do research before hand.  Look online and get a list of as many shops and boutiques as you can in that area.  If you need to make appointments, make them!  There is no point in going anywhere clueless.  Have a plan and make the most of your shopping trip.

Try On As Much As You Can:

Go into a shop and try on as many dresses as you possibly can.  Don't pass over dresses if they don't catch your eye immediately.  Sometimes those are the best dresses.  Trust me, I know from experience.  Keep an open mind and you are bound to find the right dress for you.

Don't Shop Alone:

Always bring people along with you for second and even third opinion.  Make sure they are people who give an honest opinion.  Help is much appreciated during this stressful time.  They might be able to see the dress differently and give some advice.  Plus, you could always use them as you personal slave for the day and have them haul hundreds of dresses in and out of the dressing room for you!

Don't Lose Heart:

It's very easy to lose heart when searching for that perfect dress.  Try to stay positive.  Just because you don't find anything in the first shop or even on the first day doesn't mean you will never find anything.

Don't Leave Dress Shopping Until The Last Minute:

"The debs is weeks away, I have plenty of time!"  Stop right there!  Don't make the same mistake I did.  Start early because there are thousands of other girls looking for dresses.  Shops run out of stock, you can't find your size and the clock is ticking!  Leaving everything until the last minute only causes stress.  Start early and relax knowing you're sorted and then you can laugh at all the other girls pulling their hair out (a.k.a. me)!

So those are just a few tips I have come up with after my debs dress shopping experience.  I hope this was helpful.  Let me know if you have any more tips you think might come in handy and until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!

Things I've Noticed About Soap Operas

I don't watch that many soaps, just one in particular which is Home and Away.  I've been watching Home and Away for a ridiculously long time and in that time I've noticed a few things that are typical of soap operas.  I thought in this blog post I would share a few of those things with you.  Enjoy!

Relationships:

The majority of characters in a soap opera have been in a relationship with almost every other character their age.  The thing that really gets to me is how the teenagers are all in relationships and have been in at least five relationships before they're eighteen.  If that was real life I definitely wouldn't be single.  In soaps there is no such thing as being single.  Being single is a tragedy and you are guaranteed to be set up with someone.

Romance in soaps in never straightforward.  There could be two characters who really like each other.  Their story gets dragged out and you are screaming at the TV rooting for them.  Eventually, they do get together and you're happy for a while, then you get bored and the relationship ends.  Of course most breakups come about due to lying, cheating and/or death.

There Are No Secrets:

Soaps are usually set in a small area and word gets around fast.  You will never meet a character who doesn't care about somebody else's life.  In soaps it's not just the women who have intuition.  If a character is having problems they will be asked to spill the beans, guaranteed.  Also, someone always turns up at the perfect moment.  If two people are having an argument I can promise you someone will turn up to see what all the commotion is about.

Your Past Will Come Back To Haunt You:

I lost count a long time ago of the amount of times a character has found themselves in a rut because their past came back to bite them.  Whether it's an ex, an estranged family member or the police investigating a murder, your past will find you.  Don't think a small sea side town is going to hide you!

Tragedies Are A Common Occurrence:

A soap would not be a soap without a truck load of tragedy!  A small area can experience numerous murders, car accidents, fires and terminal illnesses in a very short space of time.  The inside of a hospital can be seen at least once in every episode.  I'm surprised the characters are still sane with all that death and destruction happening around them.  A phrase commonly used when describing a storyline full of tragedy is that someone's life "hangs in the balance" and nothing good can ever come of it!

Well, those are just a few observations.  Let me know if there is anything else typical of a soap opera that I missed.  What are your favourite soaps?  I'm just going to go now and watch another weeks worth of Home and Away but until then...

I'll see ya when I see ya!