Cork Fashion Trail 2017- My Life The Event

I was honoured to be asked as a VIP blogger last weekend in Cork for the #corkfashiontrail. I lived in Cork in my early college days and has always loved the city. It's a hub of activity and we got to sample some of its little jems while we were on  our trail.
Firstly we were treated to breakfast in Starbucks on Opera Lane. Julia Evans who runs PR for Opera Lane and Natasha Crowley who is a fashion stylist for Opera Lane both gave us an informative talk on Opera Lane and about the different trends that we are likely to see this Spring/Summer.
The most amazing thing is that you can book Natasha for a 2 hour personal Styling session for FREE! Check her out Here
We headed off then to Olori Boutique Cork where Susan and Lisa welcomed us with Prosecco and chocolates. The girls were so friendly and went through exclusive pieces from the collection they  have. The below dress was my favourite.

They have exclusive brands like Alchimista Parfum,Cacherel, Goat and Stutterheim Raincoats which I must say are beautiful. 

Next we entered the Vintage world of Miss Daisy Blue It was like stepping into a time warp. It was heaven to me as I love all things vintage as everyone knows. The girls had loads of fun trying fur coats and some vintage wedding dresses. 

We were treated once again to some yummy cakes while we looked at all the beautiful treasures in store.

Our next port of call was Saville Menswear which is the biggest mens store I've been in. The selection was enormous and any man would be in heaven here finding their perfect made to measure suit or casual wear. The staircase sold it to me. I just wish I could get my pictures taken there everyday! They stock numerous brands from Hugo Boss,Gant, Tommy Hilfiger and many more. 

Damien was our only male blogger in the morning and I took this picture outside Saville Menswear. I must say it's a fab picture and Damien fits right in!

The Shoe Suite  was our next stop as we strolled the lovely streets of Cork. I was delighted when I walked through the door and saw a whole wall of Size 3 shoes. Yes i have a small foot and it's hard to get anything nice in my size. The selection was unreal with the Kylie and Kendall collection taking centre stage for me. They also had a great selection of handbags and wallets from Guess which I was drueling over.

The hunger gremlins were setting in so off we went to Dukes Coffee Company for lunch. We were treated to a fab selection of cakes, wraps and sandwiches. You can see my beautiful face on their Facebook video which I'm extremely proud of! The cafe has a rustic feel and super comfy to relax in an enjoy a coffee other two. 

Phoenix V  was my favourite place to visit. I loved all their dresses and as my favourite colour is purple I fell in love with one that was right up my street. 

All dresses come in sizes upto 16 or they can make one to suit any occasion. The girls were extremely busy when we arrived but still had time to pop the prosecco! I will definitely be back!

Swarovski was the most sparkling shop on out trail. The glitter and gleam of the crystals was mesmerising. If like me you love all things sparkly then this is the shop for you. From necklaces to watches they have it all. 

Our last stop was The Athlete's Foot sports store. They stock Converse, Jordans and Puma to name but a few. They offered us a 25% discount on the day which was extremely generous. They have a wide range of gym gear for both male and female aswell as kids ranges.

Unfortunately I didn't make the wrap party but I would like to thank Marie for organising such a great event in Cork and making me feel extremely welcome. I met some  fantastic bloggers on the day and was  delighted to be asked.

Thanks to all the businesses for their generosity on the day as I was definitely spoilt and felt like a VIP!

Roll on my next trip to Cork. 

Love to all

Patricia xx

From Ectasy to Despair

Why has she posted a pic of herself at the Gossies you ask? Well this was the weekend I found out I was having my second miscarriage.
I need to give some of you that don't know me a bit of background so you will understand my story.
I've decided to share my personal story as it's a coping mechanism for me. Sharing my story with the world is a bit daunting but here goes!
I have a beautiful boy, Ronan, from a previous relationship who is now 8 years old. I was a single mum for the first four years of his life and then met my now husband Richard. Richard has always treated Ronan as his own but for me I would love to have a brother or sister for Ronan. As I'm no spring chicken, ahem turning 40 next year, I knew there might be hurdles to get over but didn't realise the impact it would have on me as a person.
I'm writing this post to help even just one couple as I learned it's not just me suffering but my husband too. It's going to be a no holds barred post and might be a bit graphic for some so reader beware! I went in search of online help when making my decision to have medication management other to have a D and C and couldn't find any honest upfront posts. There were some from  years ago but things have moved on with procedures now so this is My Personal Story.
As I sit here the tears are welling up in my eyes but this helps me so much it will all be worth while. I had my first miscarriage last October just after my Florida trip. I wasn't too far gone so didn't need any medical help. I struggled with it for a while but I'm a great believer in everything happens for a reason so dealt with it the best I could. I've been through worse in my life and I'm a strong person so got through it.
I found out I was pregnant around Christmas time and was shocked at how quick it had happened so we were delighted. We only told our parents so everything was going fine until my morning sickness stopped suddenly and I started bleeding. I was around 8 or 9 weeks pregnant so I went to the maternity to check things were alright. They took blood tests and sent me on my merry way. I was in Dublin at the Gossies the Saturday night as life does go on and I was feeling alright. I got glammed up and put on a brave face and enjoyed my night.
I had an appointment for a scan on the Monday and went along thinking that all was going to be ok. I arrived into admissions in Limerick Maternity and told them I had been bleeding and how far gone I was. I was sent down for a scan which in turn would  be the worst day of my life. I was shaking on the table as the midwife proceeded to scan my belly. Her words will never leave me "No heart beat  and can't see anything in the sac". She was extremely professional but quite blunt but I suppose they are so many women in my position every day in there to them it's probably normal to say.
Long story short I had to come back for another scan a week later just to be sure. It was the longest week of my life.
The next scan was the hardest as you are in the waiting room with people who have their scan in their hands delighted with their news, heavily pregnant women and then women like me with Lily pictures on their scan for obvious reasons. I scanned the room and 5 out of 12 of us had Lillies on our folders as they passed them to the receptionist. I knew I wasn't alone which kind of settled me a bit. The scan was the same and the sac was collapsing so a decision had to be made what I wanted to do. The doctor had explained both options in detail but swayed me to the medication management (Cytotec) for reasons I don't know. I felt it was rushed and before I knew it I left with my prescription in hand and with the words from the doctor that I would have one "gush of blood" and it will be all over. Little did  I know that it was going to be a lot worse!
I stayed at my parents house as Richard was away in Glasgow working in the studio. Thanks be to Jesus I did as what was to follow was the worst 8 hours of my life. Now this is where T.M.I will apply. I took the first lot of tablets and everything was fine a few cramps,then I took the next set and then the flood gates opened. I started to cramp really badly. I had maternity pads on yes maternity pads as the blood was flowing none stop. Every 15 minutes I would need to get up and rush to the toilet. Diarrhoea is a side effect of the tablets, what they don't tell you is that it's lasts for at least a week and it's black! Vomiting over the bath, blood flowing like I've switched on a tap and black diarrhea let's just say my poor parents bathroom was like a CSI crime scene. I was exhausted and extremely emotional. At one stage we rang the maternity as the blood loss was high and we sort of panicked. To be told "Oh yeah that's normal"..Normal are you kidding me...I kept telling myself that it's happened for a reason and you will get through it. Looking back would I use the tablets again definitely not, would I have the D and C I'm not sure as the negatives the doctor was telling me sounded a lot worse. I know ladies have it done every day but it's an operation under general anesthetic and really doesn't appeal to me, others will disagree.
The side effects of the tablets stayed with me for at least 7 days after. Unfortunately for me I had to go back in on Monday just gone for my last scan to make sure the tablets worked. It's a hard thing to do to just sit there in the maternity and know you have no good news to share with people. I met some customers from the pharmacy I work in and big smiles saying "Any news?". I was trying to be polite but I suppose the expression on my face told them the answer. We take for granted if you are in the maternity you are there 1. Visiting or 2. Pregnant but people need to take time to think that's not the case. One in five pregnancies unfortunately lead to miscarriage so be mindful of this would be my advice.

Talking about my Miscarriage has helped me hugely. Ronan knew something was up and made me the above card. Kids are so clued in we don't give them enough credit. My husband Richard has been my rock and for him seeing me the way I am is hard to deal with. He is trying to be strong for me but we are both crumbling inside. I'm currently at 60% and time will heal the rest. My advice is talk,talk, talk as everyone will listen. I'm a strong person and have been through a lot of rough times but I always know there is someone on the end of the phone that will listen to my silence or sometimes tears.
Time is a great healer and for me the next couple of months will tell a lot. My moto as always is YOLO so get out and enjoy life. I intend on taking time out for my family and myself of course. My blogging journey is slow but what I've achieved so far is huge to me and I'm delighted with it. I have a few projects coming up and will hopefully get me back into the swing of things.
Thanks to my family, friends and my work colleagues whom I would be lost without.
Love you all
Patricia xx

New Year..Same Me!

Happy New Year to all my followers and hope you all had a lovely Christmas. My Christmas was extremely busy with working in a pharmacy people think you will be closed forever when in reality we were closed the Sunday and Monday! This time last year I was blown away by the amount of people starting new years resolutions but I really don't make resolutions. My New year will begin by making myself available more for my friends and family. I want to make more time for things that are important like family time and of course me time. 

We all should yes be healthier and fitter but for me I'm happy with my shape and size. I've been watching all the "usual" Snapchat chat accounts that are super fit and promoting "New year, New you" but just be happy in yourself and the way you are. An example of this is Sinéad from @sineadscurvystyle. I love her Snapchat where she stays true to herself and she believes that yes you can change your life but baby steps and maybe just change one thing as she says " just have the one takeaway a week rather than the ahem several I have". Small changes and yes baby steps but in the end do what is right for you! 

I'm currently writing out my bucket list for this year. I wrote it last year and I feel when it's down on paper you really do try your best to do it. My list this year might surprise you but it's the simple things really. I've been around the world twice over from Hawaii to Fiji so first on my list is London. I know I know we live practically across the road from it but I've never been. I definitely want to visit more places and the reality of going to London happens sooner than I had expected as we are going next week! One of the girls from work kicked off the organising of the trip so we are all heading over there next Friday and I can't wait. 

As you all know the traumatic experience I had coming back from Orlando last year I'm really nervous of the flight despite its 45 minute flight time. Deep breaths and lots of them I guess. 

I will share my full list when it's done, I always aim for 10 things and the need not be new things just something as simple as do a clear out or the dreaded hot press clear out! 

Follow my Snapchat @mylifetheevent see my trip next week as I will bring you along my journey through the streets of London baby...Yes i sang that! 

So here's to the same me and the same you, onwards and upwards and there is no limit to our possibilities.

Much love

Patricia x

Limerick Style Event 2016

To say I was excited about this event was an understatement. Being a limerick woman I was excited to show off my beautiful city to the 19 other bloggers that had been invited on Friday 9th December to the #limerickstyle event.

We began our day at 9am with some press pictures and a beautiful room was set up for our champagne breakfast at the 5* Savoy Hotel. Find them at www.savoylimerick.com We were extremely spoilt with an amazing array of pastries and of course prosecco! After which they served a full Irish breakfast so we were truly spoilt and set up for our long day ahead.

Our first stop was the O’Donnell Boutique in Catherine Street in Limerick. Anna and Elaine explained to us a bit about the shop and how it's a family run business with over 70 years service. So many beautiful pieces to choose from for every occasion. Check out their Facebook page O’Donnell Boutique. They also have a sister boutique called Lily Boutique on Roches Street in Limerick. It's an has a huge range of accessories with emphasis on eclectic fashion. I adored this store and we did the infamous mannequin challenge which was so much fun. Check out them out here Lily boutique

Next up was Ryans Jewellers which was a stones through across the road from Lily Boutique on Roches Street. 

Ryans Jewllers is another family business which opened in 1964 but is a jewellery store since 1876! Yes 1876..This year Fionagh told us that they celebrate 140 years as a jewellery store. Such a beautiful store and with top names like Henry London, Paul Costelloe, My iMenso and Raymond Weil they have so much on offer that would make beautiful gifts this Christmas.Check out Ryans Jewellers for more details.

Next up we had lunch served in Vision 2 Opticians by Aroi Restaurant.

Vision 2 Opticians is located on Henry Street in Limerick. They offer an extensive range of services from eye tests to dry eye assessments. They offer designer brands from Diesel to Guess frames and also a huge range of  designer sunglasses. 

While we were there we were served lunch by Aroi Restaurant who are located on O'Connell Street. I had the gorgeous Pad Thai but I must say I did struggle with the chopsticks the amusement of others but great fun learning how to use them. 

Check them out Vision 2 Opticians Aroi Restaurant

Our next port of call was The Attic Bridal where Orlaith showed us some beautiful gowns to suit all shapes and sizes. 

Niamh modelled a range of dresses from 2 piece dresses to amazing ball gowns. Aoibhinn,Marie and Caitriona also tried on dresses as who doesn't like an opportunity of dressing up in a wedding dress! Orlaith has a gorgeous setup as natural light pours through sash windows. It was so bright and with the intimate setting its every girls dream.

Check out their website The Attic Bridal

I must say the next shop didn't disappoint either. The Ivory Closet located at the end of Shannon Street offers an array of dresses for hire. Prices our extremely affordable ranging from €80 to €200. Designers from Rachel Gilbert to Sass and Bide adorn the rails and there is definitely something for everyone.

They have an amazing website The Ivory Closet so check it out. They run great sales also so keep your eyes peeled! 

As we were getting peckish we landed in the gorgeous Hook and Ladder for treats galore. To say we were spoilt all day was an understatement. From prawns to rocky road the choice was huge. I loved it so much I brought my mum there today for lunch and they offer kids menu for only €5 which is very reasonable. 

Limerick has so much to offer and this was just the scratch of the surface. Our great nightlife I hope will feature next time but we got to sample a new venue that has just reopened Teds on O' Connell Street.

Teds has been reborn and I must say it's amazing. We even had red carpet welcoming us. Clive welcomed us with goodie bags and cocktails for everyone. They have a resident DJ and live music also. Great venue for Christmas parties or birthdays. Delighted to see it open again and wish them the best of luck with it all. Check out their Facebook page Teds Venue

The day was topped off with me winning best dressed! Yes little old me..My outfit was as we say in Limerick #pennyshun and my boots were Oasis. I get to spend 2 nights in the Savoy Hotel and can't wait..

What a day, What an event, What a city! So proud to say I'm from Limerick and Friday just cemented that for me. To everyone for making it happen. Limerick City/County Council, Irish Blogger Agency and all the businesses for welcoming us with open arms. 

I can't wait for the next one and check out @mylifetheevent on Facebook and Snapchat for more pics from  the day.

Enjoy 

Patricia x

Exfoliation is your new best friend this Winter

Since my cleansing routine has stepped up a notch considering I had none! I've been looking into exfoliation and whether or not it's for me. The pros definitely out way to cons and have found some very interesting facts on why it's great for your skin. 

It improves skin texture,removes dry flaky skin, evens skin tone and it makes your skin smoother for makeup or tan application.

The big plus for me is that it's boosts collagen production to smooth away lines and wrinkles. Who doesn't want no wrinkles! Me me me me me...

I've always scrubbed my skin to an inch of his life with the next product to get rid of tan.

Now there is nothing wrong with using exfoliating gloves. I never saw them as part of my exfoliation routine just as cleaning my skin. I only ever used them for taking off tan but then Marissa Carter came into my life and created an amazing exfoliation tool and since then I've never looked back. Tough Stuff is a fantastic exfolator and I love it. It's a fantastic product and would highly recommend for anyone needing to take off tan or just as part of weekly exfoliating routine. A fab tip I've learned is use it on dry skin first to extreme exfoliation not for some but I love the feeling of deep exfoliation. It retails for €7.99 so won't break the bank!

Nip +Fab have a product for the lazy exfolator aka me! They are a glycolic exfoliating pad that smoothes the skin. It resurfaces and retextures the skin while the pores appear more refined and your complexion brighter. All Nip+Fab products are half price on boots.ie so these pads are only €8.99 normal retail is €17.99. I've just ordered some so will see how I get on and let you all know. 

My last thing is don't forget the lips. As we are definitely in the winter mode now our lips become extremely dry and chapped. The Body Shop have a fab Lipscuff which exfoliates and moisture in one. A top tip is mix brown sugar and honey to a paste and scrub lips enough to loosen dead skin. Apply lip balm after, I love Cicaplast lip by La Roche Posay it's extremely moisturising. 

I have a really long Santa list this year and I'm definitely going to try and take more care of my skin. I would love if you had any suggestions for me or what products you like or use. Leave a comment or message me on my facebook page My Life The Event 

Lots of Love

Patricia xx

To Cleanse or not to Cleanse...

So I'm trying my best at treating my skin with the best of products and of course taking my vitamins everyday to help keep my ageing skin looking flawless. Now I must say I am okay with using a face wipe after a night out as the last thing I want to do is do 3 steps of cleansing when I get in at stupid o'clock.
I've never used soap on my skin as I believe it's very drying on the skin and I think nowadays it's "not in fashion" anymore.
I'm ashamed to say for the first 25 years of my life I never cleansed, put moisturiser anywhere near my face or never took my makeup off after a night out. I know I know I still look amazing "cough cough". I suppose if bloggers were around when I was young I think they would have definitely influenced me into taking more care of my skin.
I'm 38 this year and it's telling on my skin..Yes the wrinkles are appearing and I'm told it's never too late to look after your skin.
I've come up with my top picks of products and tips so hopefully you might take something from it.

No.1 Always use a moisturiser with a sunscreen added. As we all know the sun is a huge factor in ageing skin so every little helps. As working in pharmacy we stock value ranges like Simple. They have a moisturiser with and SPF 30 and at a really good price of around  €6.50!

No.2 Cleanse twice a day. I prefer my nighttime cleanse as I spend more time doing it. It's removes all the pollutants of the day. I like using Micellar Water and a cleansing pad. Simple but effective and all skin types can use it depending on formulation. Loads of brands have brought out their own type of Micellar Water but my favourites are Garnier 4.99 for 400mls or the more expensive Avene €21.99 for 400mls.

No.3 Clean your brushes at least once a week. The amount of bacteria that grows on brushes is shocking and brush cleaners are cheap now as Pennys have them.

No.4 Exfoliate your skin at least once a week. This helps in taking away dead cells on your face resulting in  smoother and brighter skin.Just like any cleanser find one that suits your skin type.

No.5 Stay hydrated! Drink lots of water. Eat foods also high in antioxidant like blackberries,blueberry or strawberries to help your skin become more vibrant.
There are so many products out there we are spoilt for choice. If you have any tips I would love to here them and will definitely do another blog post on it as I think there are so many more options out there.
Hope you have a great week
Patricia xx

Flomar Masterclass with Michelle Regazzoli

Last Sunday I attended the Flomar masterclass that was held in the G hotel in Galway. The beautiful Michelle Regazzoli was the makeup artist on the day and CEO Paul Mooney was also on hand to answer any Flomar questions. The room was decorated beautifully and they had a pop up shop where they were selling a range of Flomar and of course the new Flawless palettes.
Flomar is currently in 310 pharmacies and Paul is opening a Flomar shop soon. Paul told us a short story on how the brand came about in Ireland and that he used to work in construction! He is an inspiration to doing what you love. He wanted to bring affordable products to people but a good quality.
Michelle started with explaining her background in makeup and being a blogger. Mrsmakeup_ie is her blog name and has been freelance now for 4 years.
Michelle started with foundation and explaining the different types. Flomar most popular one is the Perfect Coverage range. Michelle used the Flawless brush for blending but you can also use your fingers.
The matte makeup range is suitable for people who don't like wearing a lot of makeup.
A great tip I learned for people who are beginning to use eye liner is to use gel liner. It's easier to manage and to do it in stages. Don't draw a line,you should pat the eyeliner on and fill in  with pencil to create another structure line.
If you make any mistakes on eye makeup you can use Concealer to clean up.
With Lipstick application make sure to nourish the lips before you start with Primer.  The Primer gives the lip a beautiful finish and has a lasting power effect on the lips. A little secret Flomar are launching Matte lipsticks after Christmas!!!!

The masterclass was 3 hours long and must say was so worth the €20 price tag. We also got to hear about the exciting new products due to be launched after Christmas and the launch of the new Face of Flawless in the coming weeks. As most of my followers know I love the Flomar Makeup as it's an affordable brand but great quality. I'm not sponsored in  anyway shape or form by Flomar these are my honest opinions.
If there is a Flomar event near you soon definitely go as you will be in for a treat. The goody bags are awesome too. Check out my facebook page for more details on up and coming events.
Have a great weekend
Patricia