Put down the phone. Take up a hobby.

I think everybody should find a hobby or pastime that they truly enjoy. Something they can fill their spare time with that doesn't involve scrolling for endless hours on a smart phone, refreshing the screen every other minute anticipating a new notification. (Yup, I'm guilty of this at times too) Whether it's reading, running or even collecting stamps (unlikely), find something that brings you a sense of joy and most of all, relaxation.

Two of my favourite books below. The Secret and the latest release of the series, 'How The Secret Changed My Life' - Must reads in my opinion!! 

Anything at all that has the power to make you refrain from taking a selfie with a dog filter, DO THAT!! ..... Woah, chill..!! I never said I don't do this, so yeah, I definitely need to practise more than I preach. I'm often guilty of seeing that weird indentation on my pinky finger from holding my phone so much. Anyone else's little finger starting to change form? Yikes!! That's when I know it's time to step away from the device and get busy doing something else. 

Everyone has different ways and methods to help them de-stress or chill out. When I'm feeling a little wound up I've got a collection of hobbies that I know will always bring me right back down to earth. Personally, I love to read, write, walk and my absolute favourite, sketch or paint. (If shopping is classified as a hobby, I think it's safe to say I can add that to the list too.) Some people love to dance themselves into oblivion while others like to hit a ball with a racket but remember, you don't necessarily have to be skilled in the pastime you choose. Once it works for you and once you enjoy it, then that's all that really matters. So even if you don't have a cupful of co-ordination and you wanna 'shake yo ass', you do just the very thing. 

I like many, sometimes feel like a slave to my phone so I love to break out the sketch pad or pick up a good book every now and again. This way, I'm not only relaxing but I'm also injecting some creativity and knowledge into my life in a way that's enjoyable for me. Even writing this piece now has my artistic juices flowing and is making me feel calm and content. There's definitely more to life than what the Kardashian clann's snapchat story has to offer so strongly consider taking up a hobby that suits you rather than sitting around glued to your screen. I can guarantee you'll feel pretty great!

Have a fab week lovelies.

Ashley X 

If you don't have anything nice to say....

I found it quite strange writing this piece as it embodies something which frustrates me. Contradiction. Putting this aside, I felt compelled to write about the opinions of others (which are of course each and everyone's own) but in particular, to zone in on the negative views people so often shove down our throats. A day in, day out, reoccurrence that is stifling. The constant 'tit for tat' immature posts on social media and the nasty status's aimed directly at other people. An attempt at a disguised, cryptic text which turns out to be anything from it. It doesn't take too long to decipher who exactly the jibe is directed at. 

So, it feels a little bit odd for me to write a blog post that is somewhat 'aimed' at others, when I am the one who is sick and tired of the persistent, pointless, online battle between our generation. Surely, I can't be the only one who's thinks this way?

I'll stop rambling on and give you a prime example of exactly what I'm talking about. "This place is full of sheep" or "bunch of bandwagoners around here" are phrases I hear all too often. If I had a euro for every time I heard these words I'd be living more than comfortably. Seriously, come on people!! So what, if a girl wants to wear a pair of over sized lenses because that's what's on trend at the moment. That's what SHE wants to wear, her choice. Simple! Who cares if Kate from down the road has decided to go to a gig this weekend that she's actually not interested in just because everyone else is going along. Again, her decision. "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

There's more to life than bitching and moaning about what the next person is wearing or doing. Try go a day without having a nasty opinion on someone else. I'm positive you'll find it surprisingly hard but I guarantee you'll feel better for trying. I believe that writing something as relevant and rather touchy as this subject, will hopefully open up a few eyes, maybe even switch on the lightbulb or two ,up stairs in those heads. There's far more important things in life to be worrying over so don't get your knickers in a twist if Tom, Dick and Harry all decide to wear Balenciaga trainers, the worlds not going to end!! I promise.

I just don't see the need to bash another person on a trivial fashion choice and yet still, it's happening all the time. I suppose that's just life but as the saying goes, "each to their own" so have a little think before you push unnecessary, negative comments upon the rest of us. It doesn't make you look good, trust me!! Because every time you post a malicious status or picture aimed at another.... ultimately, YOU look like the bigger, bitter fool. "Promote what you love instead of bashing what you hate".

Try giving out some compliments 

instead today :) 

Ashley X 

Bagots Hutton - My Favourite Hot Spot!!

Recently, I've been spending a lot of time eating and socialising in the newly renovated restaurant, Bagots Hutton. You might remember this little hot spot originally being situated on South William Street before they wisely decided to expand and turn up the notch by making a bold move and the right move at that! Their fantastic new and rather large space is now located on Ormonde Quay Upper so it's still super central and easy to find. If your looking for somewhere electric to be on the weekend, Bagots Hutton is your answer. 

I've been to this incredibly trendy spot on numerous occasions now from Saturday night drinks, to double dating, birthday dinner parties and even work events too. Each time I've spent an evening here it's been impossible to fault them on their food and service alike. I can't forget to mention the groovy vibe either, which really had me enthralled from the beginning. Inside, they've transformed the whole building into something special. The decor and artwork just fit perfectly giving a brilliant contrast of sophisticated and funky.

If you're a pizza lover (so basically anyone reading this) then it's essential that you try out a quality pizza here. Their passion for this dish is clearly visible from the effort they've put in when it comes to baking it. They wanted to really make eating a pizza here, an unforgettable experience and so they had a truly magnificent, wood fired Pavesi oven specially built in the kitchen. Without a doubt, you'll be able to taste the difference when you eat a pizza that has been baked in the most respected and trusted pizza ovens there is. I still can't get my head around the fact that it only takes only one minute to cook it to perfection. Crazy, I know!! 

I've tried pretty much everything on the menu and amongst my favourites has to be the Pressed Shoulder of Lamb and the Venison Ragu Pasta. Just absolute, mouth watering, goodness!! Make sure you finish off your meal with a refreshing Aperol spritz, it would be rude not to! Saturday evenings and Sunday brunch, Bagots Hutton is unquestionably the place to be. If you enjoy live jazz music you'll really be in for a treat! The guys have also now introduced live music from 8pm onwards every Thursday for their Dine & Dance set menu deal. They've also got some other really great specials on during the week including the Meaty Monday which would be an outright  sin to pass up.

In my eyes, Bagots Hutton is the new Hip n' Happening place to be (excuse the dad lingo) but it's true! I always look forward to spending an evening here with family or friends. From the day they opened their doors, it's insanely flourished and still continues to do so. Contagious good vibes and energy flows through Bagots Hutton so get your ass down here if it's a good time your after!! 

Buon apetito,

Ashley x 

Their website is still under construction at the moment so be sure to check out their social media platforms or email them at info@bagotshutton.com for any queries or Call: 01- 8788118