The Lo Down - My Fitness and Weightloss Journey

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I'm finally finished college so I have a bit of time to spend on my blog for the next little while. As you all know I've worked really hard over the last couple of months to lose weight and it is tough to say the lease I'm not going to lie. It's hard to live a busy lifestyle and eat healthy too as there are so many unhealthy good options to eat while your on the go.

To date I've lost a good bit of weight which I'm delighted about but I want to work even harder as I'm starting a new Full Time job at the end of the month and I want to look well for it. I'm really excited about starting this new job and I expect really good things to come from it.

I've already started eating healthier and I can notice a difference already in my general health and energy levels. I usually bring my lunch and dinners with me now in lunchboxes too which helps as I don't have to go for any of those unhealthy options now. 

I'm going to start doing weightloss updates again, starting hopefully next week as I knew alot of you guys enjoyed them and I loved writing them too.

So until then I hope you have a lovely weekend,

Laura xx

Makeup Revolution Flawless Palette

Hey Guys and Dolls,

A brand that I haven't tried too many products from is Makeup Revolution and I really don't know why. It's a super affordable English brand that is forever getting rave reviews. I guess I just hadn't tried their products for so long as I wasn't too sure what the quality of the products were going to be like and I needn't of worried as they are really good.

I purchased a couple of palettes from the brand but the first one I'm going to show you is the Makeup Revolution Flawless palette. Lets just say I'm a really big fan of this palette, if you love neutral shades this one is definitely for you. It contains 32 shadows which are a mixture between shimmer and matte and they are all so pigmented. I actually bought this one last week and I'm so glad I did. 

I've been using this palette so much since I bought it and I love it because you can create so many amazing looks with it. Now for the good part, the price! This palette only costs €10.99 which is such amazing value for a highly pigmented eyeshadow palette with 32 shadows. I already have my eye on a couple of other palettes from this brand so keep your eyes out for some more reviews.

Laura<3

Essence Live.Laugh.Celebrate Trend Edition

Hey Guys and Dolls,

As you all know I'm a huge fan of Essence Cosmetics, I've been using it for years, all through school and even now I have so many favourites. I was surprised to hear that they were celebrating their 15th anniversary this year, jeez I feel so old.

To celebrate this momentous occasion Essence Cosmetics brought out the Live.Laugh.Celebrate Trend Edition and I loved it. The stand out product for me is their My Must Haves Palettes that are glammed up. There is also new shades specifically from the Live.Laugh.Celebrate collection to go in them.

I went for a eyeshadow, highlight, blush, lip base, lip powder and setting powder and they are all amazing. The eyeshadow that I've been using the most is called T.G,I.F and its a limited edition matte brown shade. It's beautiful all over the lid for a natural look.

These palettes are available in 4 pan and 8 pan, I bought bought as they are really inexpensive at €1.90. It's €1.90 for each individual pan aswell so that's pretty amazing too. I'm sure this collection is still available in Penneys so snap it up while you still can.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - NYX Cosmetics HD Finishing Powder in Banana

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Having been a beauty blogger for almost 7 years now I'm surprised that I've never tried a banana powder. To be honest I didn't really know what it did plus I don't really like loose powders but when I saw that NYX Cosmetics had a pressed version I decided to give it a go.

I'm glad I did as I love this brand and they never disappoint me. This product came in at €11 which isn't too bad at all. Banana powder is said to reduce the appearance of an oily complexion whilst brightening and highlighting so it gives that beautiful glow which everybody wants don't they?

It's not too powdery either so it sits beautifully on the skin which is amazing. I enjoy using this product and it has definitely become a staple in my makeup bag. I'm starting to run out of products to try from NYX Cosmetics so definitely let me know your favourites.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - NYX Cosmetics Matte Bronzer

Hey Guy and Dolls,

As it's getting a bit nicer out I like taking the bronzer out and doing a bit of contouring that's for sure. I have quite a few bronzers in my collection but my favourite has to be NYX Cosmetics Matte Bronzer. I use the shade light and it's the perfect shade for me. The colour in the pan looks pretty orangey but don't let this deter you in the slightest as it does look natural on the skin.

I was undecided between getting light or medium but I'm glad I went with the light option in the end. This matte bronzer just gives you the nicest chiseled out cheekbones ever, it's perfect for contouring. This product comes in at €13 mark which in my opinion is good value and is definitely worth the money.

There is also the option to buy the Highlight and Contour Pro palette. In this palette you get 8 refillable shades foi €29. I own this palette and I use it alot so it's certainly worth having a look at.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - My Beautiful Struggle by Jordan Bone

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I was recently sent a book to review that was written by one of my favourite beauty bloggers, Jordan Bone. If you haven't heard of her you must be seriously living under a rock cause she's totally amazing. She has a YouTube channel that I watch so much, I love when a new video pops up in my feed.

For me Jordan is so inspirational, when she was 15 years old she was in a terrible car accident that left her paralysed from the chest down and shocked her into depression. Instead of giving in she was like a phoenix rising from the ashes, after a long recovery because of her love of makeup she started a YouTube channel and I along with all the rest of her subscribers are glad she did

I read her newly launched book in a couple of sittings and the story is so powerful and inspiring. I actually cried a tear reading some of it. To have come through so much in your teens is incredible. It makes me realise not to sweat the small stuff and get on with my life.

I love how Jordan compares chapters in her life to her makeup routine, it is such an uplifting book and it's definitely a must read. I'm so happy to see so many amazing bloggers doing well for themselves, it's well deserved.

Laura<3 

The Lo Down - The Ordinary Skincare

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I love finding new and affordable skincare brands and The Ordinary is just that. I only heard about this brand recently but I heard all really good things so I decided to pick up some products. I bought their High-Adherence Silicone Primer and Natural Moisturising Factors + HA. and of course I'm a big fan.

This brand os so affordable I'm pretty sure that I got both products for €13 including postage which is really good. The moisturiser is really hydrating and the primer is a good backup for when I run out of my other primer.

I'm intrigued about this brand and can't wait to try some more products from the range, especially the foundations as if they are anything like these two they'll be amazing.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Primark/Penneys Silicone Sponge

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Last week I picked up a pack of the much talked about silicone sponges from Penneys. I got a pack of 2 for €2 which is pretty good value when you consider how much they usually are. I was really intrigued to try these as they seemed like a new intriguing way to apply your makeup and that they are.

I like these sponges for applying my makeup as they are something different even though they feel funny. I do use my normal makeup sponge afterwards just to blend all the edges in, sure we don't want those pesky lines anyways. I've already picked up some more of these for my makeup kit and I'm definitely going to pick up a couple more soon. They seem to be flying out of the shops as it is at the moment and why wouldn't they are only €2.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Garnier Moisture Bomb Super Hydrating ReBalancing Mask

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Having loved the Garnier Moisture Bomb  Super Hydrating Rebalancing Tissue Masks I decided to pick up the Super Hydrating Rebalancing Masks when I was in Boots recently. This one is for rebalancing your skin and it is said to give a matte finish. I have combination skin so I was looking forward to seeing what this mask was like as I was a big fan of the original one.

I love nothing more than to chill out in the evening with a relaxing face mask, it seriously is bliss. They leave my skin looking so good and feeling fresh which is exactly what I need lately when my skin is looking so dull and dry. I do tend to get problematic skin during this time of year so they work wonders in combating that.

I did enjoy using this mask but the original is still my favourite. The Super Hydrating Rebalancing Mask is also that little bit pricier aswell which is worth taking note of. I guess it just depends on personal preference when it comes to picking up one of these masks.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Skindinavia Facial Sprays

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I love a good setting spray me so I recently bought a set from popular brand Skindinavia and I really like all the products included in it. The set retails for €54 and it contains 3 sprays (The Makeup Primer Spray, The Makeup Finishing Spray & Post Makeup Recovery Spray) plus a little mini spray. Skindinavia are the same brand behind Urban Decay's setting sprays so there were bound to be ggood plus they are not too pricey which is great.

My favourite out of the bunch has to be the setting spray. My makeup stays in place literally all day when I use this so I couldn't be happier with it. A spray that is something different is the Post Makeup Recovery Spray, it contains zinc so it is good for the skin and my face feels so refreshed after I use it. The other spray in the set is the Prime Spray and I enjoy this step as it's a great base for my makeup.

If your looking on the market for new facial sprays definitely check these out especially when there's an offer on.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - College Update #3

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I can't believe I'm into my sixth week of college, it's a bit crazy to be honest. I'm loving college so far, I'm learning so much and it's alot of fun. I also like having a bit of a routine, that's definitely a plus I have to say.

As I told you before I had minor head surgery two weeks ago, after taking some time off college I'm all good now. I went back to college last Monday and I had an exam on Wednesday which I wasn't really prepared for. I think it went well though and I'm extremely happy about that.

Having learnt alot already, I definitely want a job in Marketing in the future. There seems to be lots of jobs going in this sector so I'm confident that I'll get a position that I like too. Fingers crossed on that one. If your wondering what course I'm doing it's a Diploma in Social Media for Business so it's definitely going to help with my blog aswell.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I never tried any products from Becca Cosmeics but I heard really good things. A while back I purchased the Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector and I really like it. I get pretty dark undereye circle and this covers them in a blink of an eye. This product comes in one shade but I'm sure this shade would suit everybody.

I haven't tried any under eye brighteners before so I have nothing to compare it to. I like this one though as it's quite a light formula and it's not too sticky at all. After trying this product I am looking forward to trying some more products from Becca in the future. I like the look of their primers and colour correctors so I may pick up some of them for sure.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Broderick's BC Bars

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I love finding new healthy food snacks to try and Brodericks BC Bars tick all the right boxes for me. I was sent a box to try a while ago and I've enjoyed munching away on them. Their so yummy! The come in 3 flavours and I really can't pick a favourite, they are all so good.

I really like this brand as it's really fun and quirky. All their products have little cartoons on them so it's something different. Of course I also like these bars as they are healthy aswell, they are full of protein and make me fuller for longer in between meals.

I'm definitely going to pick up some more of them when I go shopping next.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - MAC Nutcracker Sweet Warm Eye Compact

Hey Guys and Dolls,

MAC is one of those brands I've been using for years. I own alot of their lipsticks I'm quite a bit fan, Velvet Teddy is my favourite. Last Christmas my boyfriend Daragh picked me up one of their limited edition Festive palettes. The collection was based on the Nutcracker and everything was so pretty but of I was in love with the eyeshadow palettes. MAC eyeshadows are really good, their so pigmented. I have one of their custom palettes and I find myself reaching for it all the time.

The palette Daragh bought me is called the Nutcracker Sweet Warm Eye Compact and it's so pretty. This palette contains 9 neutral shades, there is a yellowy shade that I was a bit afraid of using but it looks nice on the eyes so I had nothing to be scared of.

I've been using this palette alot and love it, it retails for in and around €38 o for what you get it's not too bad. I actually have my eye on another eyeshadow palette from MAC so I'll let you know if I pick it up.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - My Makeup Trolley Case

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I own alot of makeup as I have a blog I get the opportunity to try alot of amazing products. Don't get me wrong though I did have a tonne of makeup before I started blogging aswell as I always wanted to be a makeup artist when I was younger. As you can imagine it is pretty difficult to store it all, I have to take a trip to IKEA soon I haven't been there in so long. In the meantime I use my Makeup Trolley Case that I got off my Nanna and Aunty for my birthday a year or two ago. It doesn't store all my makeup but it is pretty handy all the same.

It's big and spacious which will be perfect when I start my Makeup Artist course in September, I'm sure they bought it in Salon Services. As I've said before I have this trolley case for quite a while and I always use it. I like how theres pull out trays and a deep centre which is really good for storing bigger products. It has wheels and a big handle so it's pretty easy to transport this from A to B. It's doesn't take up too much space either which means this definitely gets two thumbs up from me. I'm already considering buying a mini one of these to put on my shelf so I'll keep you posted. I seen that NYX Cosmetics have one so I may get that.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Weightloss Update #14

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Another week is almost over and you know what that means another weightloss update of course. I could never have imagined in January that in May I've accomplished so much in such a short period of time, it's pretty unbelievable and I almost can't believe it myself. Losing weight isn't easy for me it's an extremely hard thing to do but once you get into it it's plain sailing from there on in. You just have to be commited and everything else will follow suit. Before I started my weightloss journey I was so unmotivated but now I can proudly say I am alot more so.

This week I lost 2 pound which brings my total weightloss to date to 3 stone 5 pound which is amazing and I'm really happy about it. The support I get is unreal and I know alot of people are trying to lose weight so I'm going to do what ever I can to help them out. If your in the same boat definitely email me and I can write you out my weightloss tips and trick. It's exactly what I'm doing myself so it definitely works. I still treat myself on my weighin day and enjoy food so that's a good thing cause I know it's hard sometimes to cut out the food you like.

It really is just making some small changes and this could really change your life for the better. I was always a confident person, that being said I am much happier now in myself and you could be like that too. I think at the end of the day you get out what you put in.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - La La Land Review

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Last night I came home from Daragh's house and my parents had picked me up La La Land on dvd, I was beyond excited. I grew up looking at lots of musicals like 7 Brides for 7 Brothers and Westside Story to name a few so I love them. Of course I couldn't wait to watch La La Land so I watched it on my laptop last night and it was amazing.

I love the pairing of Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, it's hard to believe that they've already been in 3 movies together and I love them all especially Crazy Stupid Love. It's a classic! Back to La La Land though I was expecting really good things as it got so many awards and it definitely delivered that's for sure. I can see why it was so popular when it came out.

If you like musicals you'll love this, it's just that with a modern twist. It's about a man and a woman in Hollywood who both have big dreams, Gosling is a musician who wants to open his own Jazz bar and Stone is a aspiring actress, this movie is about their story and their relationship.

I can't talk about this movie without talking about the soundtrack, it's excellent and I think it definitely makes the movie. I love the opening song and City of Stars, they are definitely my favourite. La La Land came out last week so if you are having a quiet weekend I'd recommend picking it up you won't regret the purchase that's for sure.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Avonmore Chocolate Protein Milk

Hey Guys and Dolls,

As you all probably know I did a review a while ago on Avonmore's Protein Milks and my brother & I were really big fans of this product. It has alot of protein in one carton plus it doesn't have a protein taste, it actually tastes amazing. I'm not a big fan of protein foods that taste really strongly of protein but this stuff I can handle.

My brother and I were sent out some samples of the new chocolate flavour to try and yes we love it. They already have the normal and vanilla flavours available but chocolate is something different. It doesn't taste really artificial like some milks can so that's a good thing. Both my brother and I are on our fitness journeys at different stages and we both drink this stuff alot as a part of our eating plan and we wouldn't drink anything but this.

Our favourite flavour was Vanilla originally but that has now changed to chocolate so if you see this in your local store definitely give it a try.

Laura<3 

The Lo Down - Chill Out Day with the Boyfriend

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Yesterday morning I was in college, I was working on c.vs and what not, I was finished at 1 so it was all good as it was such a long week, Afterwards I called over to Daragh's house. We've been going out 11 months now and the time has really flown by. We're mad about each, I can talk to him about anything and he makes me so happy everytime I see him. We don't get to see each other too much, just on the weekends as we're both so busy with work and college but when we do see each other we always have such a nice time. Daragh lives a hour journey away from my house so I do have to get two buses but it's worth it. I stay over in his house on those days because it's such a long journey it wouldn't be worth my time going home to be fair.

When I went over yesterday we chilled out for a while then we had some yummy food and watched some tv. I'm not going to lie cause I was so nackered from college I feel asleep for two hours. Daragh could tell I was tired so he left me be and I slept for ages. After that we went down to his local pub for a few drinks which was much needed after such a long week. I usually drink gin and tonic as I'm on my weightloss journey and I wouldn't want to ruin my good work so far.

All in all I had a great day I'm heading back over to Daragh's today later on to stay the night. I don't really know what we have planned yet but I'm sure it will be good.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Face Paint by Lisa Eldridge

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Another one of my all time favourite makeup artists is Lisa Eldridge. I just love the makeup looks she creates on her YouTube channel, I just get so many ideas. My parents bought me her book, Face Paint last Christmas and it's definitely quickly become one of my favourites. This book is totally different to other makeup books I own as it tells the history of makeup so I find it ever so interesting. 

The book contains 229 pages and it's so informative it starts from when makeup was first used and continues on from there. I took alot of information from this book and I thought it was good. I love the imagery and just look at that cover, it's amazing I love it!

If your looking for a beauty book different to the norm I'd definitely recommend picking up this book. As I've said it's something different and I really enjoyed it, it's such a good read. I think it would make a great coffee table book to flick through as it's full of interesting information.

Laura<3 

The Lo Down - Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb Tissue Mask

Hey Guys and Dolls,

My face has been unbelievably dry lately, I think the change in the weather is partially to blame to be honest. This has resulted in me trying to find a cheap and affordable face mask. Of course I headed to Boots and after looking through all the skincare that was on offer I found exactly what I was looking for. I picked up the relatively new Garnier Moisture Bomb Tissue Mask. I have to put it out there I'm absolutely in love. This mask is the exact same as the ever popular sheet masks and I can't get enough of it.

It is such good value at under €3 for one so of course I had to buy two. Sure I had to treat myself after all. I've been using these on my face alot I definitely will be repurchasing a couple on my payday this week. One sheet mask contains a weeks worth of hydrating serum so if you have dry skin like me at the moment this is definitely something to check out next time your in Boots. It's just amazing and gives a nice shot of moisture to the skin.

My skin has never looked so good since I started using these mask, I seen alone that they have brought out another version of these too so I definitely want to pick them up aswell the next time I'm in Boots.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Weightloss Update #13

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Sorry that my weightloss update is a little late, I've just been so unbelievably busy with college it's been unreal. I've been loving it so far though so I guess that's the main thing. Back to my weightloss update though I'm down another 2 and a half pounds which brings my total weightloss to 3 stone 3 pounds which is incredible. I've been working so hard so to be smashing my goals like this has been amazing.

I'll have to start buying new clothes as some of my clothes are looking that little bit too big which is a good sign and I'm delighted. I've been so busy with college lately rushing around so I think that has had a big impact on my weightloss this week to be fair I really haven't had a minute to myself but all is good. I'm still working on the weightloss tips and tricks folders for those of you that wanted one so don't worry I haven't forgotten about you, I'll get them to you as soon as I can.

I do feel that I'm not on a diet now I'm more making a permanent lifestyle change which I feel is a better way to look at it. I feel much healthier right now and I think it is amazing how small choices can make such a big difference to your life. I'm going to keep this short and sweet as I have to get some college work done so until my next post, keep smashing your goals I bet you are all doing amazing.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Nyx Strobe of Genius Palette

Hey Guys and Dolls,

The other palette Daragh picked me up last week is the NYX Strobe of Genius palette and god it's a beauty. Boy I think I'm in love! Like the Sweet Cheeks palette I wanted this for a while now and I'm so happy he got it for me, he really is the best boyfriend I could ask for. I'm very much into getting that beautiful everyday glow and this palette does just that, I've been using it quite a bit since I got it off Daragh I'm not going to lie.

This palette is multi purpose which is good aswell, I've not just been using this a highlighter palette but as eyeshadows too. They work perfectly as both and I seriously can't get enough of this palette. For the price in and around €21 you can't go wrong as you get 7 shades that are so pigmented and they are all so wearable too. I've been using the shade in the bottom left hand corner the most and it just gives a beautiful natural glow that would be perfect all year round. 

NYX Cosmetics are definitely my favourite budget brand at the moment, other budget brands will have to take note as they are killing it right now. I already have my eye on other products from the brand that I will probably pick up on payday so watch this space for sure.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - NYX Sweet Cheeks Palette

Hey Guys and Dolls,

My boyfriend Daragh went on holidays a week or so ago and we met up the day after he came back. We went to Dundrum and he bought me some bits and pieces from NYX Cosmetics, the beautiful Sweet Cheeks palette was one of my gifts. I've always wanted to purchase this palette so I was delighted when Daragh bought it for me.

The palette contains 8 shades and retails for in and around €23 which I think is a good value for what you get. This palette is so pigmented, it's amazing. I'm in love with all the shades, their so pretty. I don't think I could pick a favourite to be honest. I think this palette would be great for travelling as it contains so much and the packaging is very sturdy which is really good.

As you already know I really like NYX Cosmetics as it's very affordable and this is another amazing product from them.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Well Fest 2017

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Last weekend I attended the annual Well Fest in Dublin's Herbert Park. I was so excited as it was my first year going. The event consists of talks, workshops and classes. The weather was good for it too which was amazing. I went down early myself on Saturday to have a look at what was on offer.

Everyone that attended was in for a treat. As I've already said the event took place in Herbert Park in Donnybrook and the layout was fabulous. There was classes taking place everywhere, outside and in tents plus there was lots of workshops and talks.

The speakers over the weekend were amazing, Joe Wicks, Rob Lipsett and John Kavanagh to name a few. There was different tents that had numerous health food stands which was pretty cool as it's always good to learn about new health foods.

It was all very interesting and I had such a good time, I definitely recommend checking it out next year if you get the chance.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Our Marley Park Adventure

Hey Guys and Dolls,

The weather in Ireland at the moment has been amazing. I love a nice bit of sunshine like everybody else so of course I had to make the most of it so Daragh and I decided to take a trip to Marley Park last week. Himself had never been to Marley Park before so as Bilbo Baggins said in The Hobbit we're going on an adventure and that we did.

We went up to the park last Wednesday and we had a nice walk around and then we chilled out in the grass and listened to some music which was total bliss. I love Marley Park myself it's so nice to be in absolutely beautiful surroundings and Daragh really liked it too. We are definitely considering going to Longitude in July, I adore Mumford and Sons and they are playing on the Sunday so we're going to try get 2 tickets soon. We are going to Damien Dempsey in the Iveagh Gardens in July aswell so we are going to have to try and fit Longitude in aswell as it's usually really good craic, sure you can't really beat a festival style concert in a park. It sounds amazing and it will be my first time going aswell if we do manage to get tickets that is.

If you haven't taken a visit to Marley Park in a while definitely try to get there whilst the weather is so good, you won't regret it.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher Book Review

Hey Guys and Dolls,

The latest book I've managed to finish reading is 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher. I started this book in and around two weeks ago and I really enjoyed it, I seriously couldn't put it down. My Dad bought this book for me in my favourite bookshop in Dublin, Hodges and Figgis. I never leave that place without a new book or two.

I started this book right away and as I've said above I couldn't put it down. The book itself focuses on the difficult topic of mental health and suicide. I've done a couple of posts about my experience with ill mental health and of course I know how much a big epidemic it is all over the world. I think alot more should be done to support people that are suffering from mental health issues as for some it will be the hardest fight of their life.

13 Reasons Why is told through the two main characters Clay and Hannah. Sadly at the beginning of the book you learn that Hannah has lost her life to suicide. I don't particularly like the world commited as it sounds like you commited a crime or something. Hannh was at a difficult time in her life with school and life in general and she feels in the end that her only option is taking her own life. No one should ever feel that way and this should never be the only option available. I've learned in my life that suicide is a long term solution for a short term problem. Everything in life is fixable and I myself may have taken a while to realise that but it's definitely true.

Back to the story, Clay receives a box in the mail which includes inside 13 cassette tapes that documents 13 Reason Why Hannah Baker killed herself. Some parts of this book gave me the chills and it is hard to read but at the end of the day I feel like 13 Reasons Why focused on alot of issues that need to be talked about in our society right now. We are seriously losing too many teenagers and young adults to suicide every week and this needs to change. No one should be a statistic!

I really recommend giving this book a read if you get the chance and definitely let me know what you think. You can't really go anywhere these days without seeing negative feedback about the Netflix's 13 Reasons Why tv adaptation. I haven't watched the full season yet so I don't want to give my review of the show but I will be doing one very soon. I can say I do like it so far.

The Lo Down - My College Life #2

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I'm now into my fourth week of college and I'm really loving it so far. There's alot of content which means I'm learning so much! I'm going to miss a few days of college as I got minor head surgery on Thursday but that really shouldn't be a big issue to be fair. I'll be fine and I'll definitely catch up so I'm not worried at all.

My course is 18 weeks long so I'll be finished in the first week in August so if I  I get a job by then I'll definitely go away somewhere at this stage I'd go just about anywhere to be honest with Daragh for a few days. My course is full time but I'm going to be doing a part time course in Sports and Recreational Therapy in June so that sounds really interesting. Sure it's good to keep the brain active.

I'm also going to be doing a makeup artist course in September which is something I've always wanted to do so I'm excited. 2017 is going to be a really good year I know it.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Ilove Charlotte Tilbury, they have such a wide range of amazing products. I recently bought their Airbrush Flawless Finish powder. I use the shade 2 Medium and it's the perfect shade for me. I always keep this in my makeup bag, it's great to have at college as I need to powder my face alot daily as I quite oily.

I love the packaging on this products it's so pretty and compact. I apply this with Blank Canvas powder brush and buff it onto my skin over my foundation of course. Viola my oily skin and forehead is no more. It sets beautifully over my Bourjois Healthy Mix foundation, I love it plus it gives a bit of coverage aswell. I've heard this powder doesn't work well with some foundations but I fingers crossed have not had that problem yet and I hope I don't either.

All in all I really like this product and it may possibly have become one of my favourite products from Charlotte Tilbury at the moment.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Weightloss Update #12

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Another week as over and of course that means it's time for this weeks weight loss update. I can't believe I've been doing this for 3 months now, that's totally insane in my opinion. Time really does fly so we should all definitely make the most of it and make everyday count for sure.

So your probably wondering how my weightloss went this week. I'm down another 4 pounds bringing my total weightloss to date to 3 stone and a half pound. Like what is life right now?? I am so unbelievably happy, I'm smashing all my goals and feel so much better in myself right now. I feel so much healthier, I do have a long way to go but I do feel amazing.

I got minor head surgery during the week so I won't be doing much next week. I don't think I'll be even going into college cause I'm in alot of pain which is never good. This means I'll have to work extra hard this week and eat super healthy. I want to lose another half a stone in two weeks so I want to seriously smash that goal aswell so fingers crossed and all that jazz.

Before I finish off this post I just wanted to mention something to you guys. As I'm doing so well with my weightloss I wanted to share some of my tips and tricks with you that definitely work. I'll be doing a sports and recreational therapy course in June so I think it would be pretty cool to start off by doing something like this. Of course it will be completely free so if your interested leave me a comment below. I look forward to hearing from you and helping you smash your goals and achieve your dreams.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - March/April Favourites

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I can't believe another two months have flown by, it's insane. You know what that means it's time for my favourites and I'm so excited to show you guys what I've been loving this month. I have quite a few so lets get started.

Lee Stafford Coco Loco Shampoo and Conditioner

As I've told you in a couple of posts already, I love trying new haircare and I get the opportunity to try these two products over the last months. I love them both and I was so impressed. They smell of coconut which to me is so yum!! They also leave my hair looking amazing and squeaky clean, just what I want from any shampoo and conditioner. I highly recommend them both and I can't wait to try some more products from this line once I recover from my head surgery. I did a review recently which you can check out here.

MAC Velvet Teddy Lipstick and NYX Lip Lingerie Liquid Lip Glosses

I have two lip products to share with you guys this month. First up is MAC's Velvet Teddy lipstick. This lipstick has a huge following and is definitely one of the most popular MAC lipsticks that they have to offer. It's so easy to apply and looks beautiful on the lips. It has a matte finish and just goes perfectly with any makeup look which is why I love it so much. I'm almost all out of mine so I will definitely be repurchasing it really soon. A review of this product can be found here. The other lip product favourite of mine is from NYX Cosmetics which is one of my favourite drugstore brands at the moment. I haven't tried a product that I didn't like yet which is really good. My favourite product of theres at the moment is their Lip Lingerie Liquid Lipsticks. They are just amazing, I adore them. They apply as a liquid and dry to a matte finish lipstick. There are so many shades to choose from and I have quite a few that I couldn't pick just one. It's definitely worth your while to go to your local counter to have a mooch if you ask me. If you want to check out my full review you can find it here.

Uriage HandCream

I love a good hand cream as my hands do get so dry as the weather is so changeable out there at the moment. I've been using a new handcream from Uriage lately and I think it's really good. It's nice and thick but it sinks into my skin right away. I carry this everywhere with me and I'm forever pulling it out of my bag when my hands are needing that extra bit of tlc. I recently was sent that intense version of this so I'll definitely let you know my thoughts soon. This handcream smells lovely too by the way. I posted a review of this a couple of weeks ago which you can see here.

Blank Canvas Makeup Brushes

I like having good tools to apply my makeup and I've looked no further than Blank Canvas Cosmetics brushes lately. This is an Irish brand and they are such good quality. I owned a couple of their brushes then when I seen that they had a sale over Christmas I purchased the Dimension Series Hamper and I'm so glad I did. It contains so many amazing brushes from face to eye so it gives great variety. I have been using these so much lately and I definitely want to pick up another set soon. If you want to see my post on these brushes you can check it out here.

Reading

Yes you read it right, I love to read! I've been reading just about anything I can get my hands on lately. I think it's so important to keep your mind active and I love being transported into another world that I made up after reading a good book. I've been reading since I was about 6 and everyone in my house calls me the reader, I'm definitely a bit of a book nerd. I've read quite a few books over the last while so if you look back over my blog you'll definitely find a good few book reviews and there'll be more to come in the next while aswell.

College

Since I did my last favourites post I started college, I actually did a post on it already a couple of weeks back. It had to make it into my favourites as I'm enjoying the course so much at the minute. At present I'm chilling out after getting minor head surgery on Thursday but I seriously can't wait to get back into college when I'm better next week. I'm learning so much and the course is full with interesting content so I'm loving it. If you didn't know I'm studying Social Media for Business in a college in Dublin and I think this course will really help my blog in the future. It's not fully focused on Social Media all the time though which I like, there's alot of marketing content. I studied Marketing in college before so I definitely have an advantage at the moment as I love the module alot. I'll definitely keep you posted with how I'm getting on with the course. Another post about my college life is actually going up on Monday or Tuesday so keep an eye out for that for sure.

That's it, my favourites for the month of April and May. Hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it, which is alot by they way.My next favourites post will be up in July so definitely come back for that.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - My Journey to being more Positive

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Being positive, some people find it so easy to be just that while others find it almost impossible. I was the latter three years ago, I was so negative no one could say anything to me without me having a little hissy fit. It was during my bad mental health stage and most of the time I wanted to spend time on my own which of course wasn't the solution either.  I was beyond down and no one could bring me out of my rut at the time.

Fast forward three years and I'm in a much better place right now. I'm happy, I'm doing exactly what I what I want to do in life, I'm going out with a boy that seriously is my everything and things are just going well in general. It wasn't all that easy to get to this stage I'm telling you, it took hard work and determination on my part. Of course I had alot of support aswell from my family, friends and mental health professionals which was definitely needed.

So how did I become so positive you may ask? Mindfulness helped alot, I'm not going to lie it wasn't for me to begin with. I didn't like it at all and I dreaded going to be my classes but once you get into it it's really helpful. It's all about living in the moment which I don't think we do quite enough at all. I feel much more relaxed when I practice Mindfulness if you can't find a class near you, there's always really good books you can get on it aswell. Next I think it is really important to have like minded positive people around you. When I was being really negative I noticed that a good few of my friends didn't want to be around me which was hard I must admit but I totally understand why now. People don't like when you are negative as it does but a downer on everyone elses day which isn't fair in the slightest. Once I started being positive again all those friends came back and we're way happier to see me back to my old self. So I feel it's really good to be around positive people as nothing beats those positive vibes.

I think it's also really important to do regular activites, if I was sitting around the house all day I would just get more and more inside myself. To beat that I decided to make plans for everyday be it go out for a short walk or hang out with my close friends, both these things for me made such a difference to my life. I also found reading a good book helped me alot. If you sit down with a good book I automatically think you feel happier and you have something to talk to your friends about when you seen them. I think Ruby Wax books are really good. She's an amazing mental health advocate and I found her books interesting as well as really informative.

All in all I feel alot more positive over the past few years it definitely took time and effort but I got there in the end and I'm definitely feeling alot happier which is always a plus.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Prison Break is Back!!

Hey Guys and Dolls,

One of my favourite shows growing up in my teens was Prison Break. It was just so good, it ended a couple of years ago after 4 seasons and I was pretty disappointed to say the least. I was really happy to hear earlier in the year that the show was coming back for a fifth season. It started on Fox in Ireland last Monday and of course I had to watch it.

The new season focuses around Michael Schofield. Is he still alive? Sarah has remarried and Lincoln has learned from Teabag that Michael might possibly be alive. Teabag got sent a picture of Michael so could it be true. I'm not going to go too much into it as I'm sure you guys will want to watch it for yourself. I really enjoyed the first episode, sometime when a show is brought out again they tend to ruin it but this time around they definitely didn't. I can't wait to watch some more this week.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Lee Stafford Coco Loco Shampoo and Conditioner

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I've never tried products from the haircare brand Lee Stafford until I was recently sent their shampoo and conditioner to try. I was really excited to try these products as I'm always looking for new great products for my hair.

Coco Loco is a coconut oil based haircare line which as you all know is amazing for your hair. First off before I talk about the product itself, just look at that packaging it's so pretty love it. As I said I'm always on the lookout for new products and these tick all the boxes for me. My hair can be quite quite sensitive at times and Lee Stafford products don't aggravate my scalp at all. I am really fond of these products even after using them once on my hair it is left feeling silky smooth and looks amazing. A little bit goes a long way aswell, I use the smallest amount. After trying these two products I can't wait to try some more products from this brand, I'll definitely keep an eye out for these the next time I'm in Boots. 

Laura<3

The Lo Down - My Easter Weekend with my Boyfriend

Hey Guys and Dolls,

Last weekend was the Easter weekend so it was time for me to take a break from college. I spent the weekend with my boyfriend Daragh which was so nice. On Friday all the pubs were closed in Ireland as it was Good Friday so we had some drinks in his house and the chats which is just what I needed. On Saturday we watched the football and some Fast & the Furious movies as we're going to see the new movie this week I think.

On Sunday we just chilled out for the day and I did some of my study for college. Of course it was Easter Sunday, I got Daragh a Galaxy egg and he got me a Lindt Easter egg my fave. Plus his Mom got me a Lindt Easter Bunny so I definitely was off my diet over the weekend that's for sure. The weekend went by so quick and on Monday I went home to my house to get stuff organised for college today. I had a presentation today and I nailed it so delighted with life. I have an advantage though as I did a marketing, sales, advertising and pr diploma a while back.

All in all I had a great weekend, it was nice to chill out with Daragh and spend more time with him as we don't get to do it that much.

Laura<3

The Lo Down - Vivid Brights Liner

Hey Guys and Dolls,

I was sent a product recently and I wasn't too sure how I was going to make it work on me. The product in question is NYX's Vivid Brights Liner in Vivid Petal, a light pink shade that I'm not going to lie I wouldn't usually go for.

As I said above I wasn't too sure how I was going to wear this product on my eyes that is until I went to the NYX counter in Arnots. The sales assistant was so lovely and even gave me a list of their best selling products that I should try next. Basically she told me to pair this liner with a black liner so there would be a bit of a contrast between the two and it works really well.

I've gone from not thinking I'd be able to rock this product to trying to come up with more looks to incorporate it in. I think this product would be amazing for over the festival season. Plus like all NYX products it's very affordable aswell so it's a win win.

Laura<3