Bloom Magazine (Feb16)

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IEAST

T FAS L E B

EAST BELFAST ISSUE 47 FEBRUARY 2016

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Bloom Magazine Belfast

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Welcome to the FEBRUARY 2016

magazine

CONTENTS 04

10

12

LATEST NEWS

WOMEN IN

BEAUTY ADVICE

16

18

24

FROM YOUR LOCAL AREA

SECRET DAY SPA

BUSINES

LOCAL EXPERT

BLOOM LOVES

SPORTS FIXTURES

BELMONT FOOT CLINIC

OUT STAMP OF APPROVAL

ULSTER RUGBY / BELFAST GIANTS

26

28

30

WITH LOVE

HOME STYLE BLOGGER

DEKKO BIRD

BELFAST MUM

34

36

40

WHAT’S ON

LOCAL EXPERT

HANDMADE

BIG PICTURE MOVIE NEWS

PARENTING BLOG

IN EAST BELFAST

NATURES WAY

44

46

PROPERTY BLOOM

DOODLE BUGS

AMPM

KIDS CRAFT

www.bloommagazine.co.uk

Find us: City East Business Centre, 68-72 Newtownards Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim BT4 1GW

Connect with us:

Contact: Angela Campbell

angela@bloommagazine.co.uk www.bloommagazine.co.uk 07719 104 862

Credits: Designed by: Printed by: Distributed by:

Stephen Sharpe - xinked.com Barry McGovern - kubrixdesign.com WG Baird - wgbaird.com Belfast Mail & Marketing belfastmm.com

Terms & Conditions: Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or WALL Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

News ANY NEWS? GET IN TOUCH!

FEBRUARY 2016

angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

Bloom Magazine Belfast

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BloomMagBelfast

HILLMOUNT SIZZLES AT UK AWARDS AS GARDEN CENTRE CELEBRATES BEST DAY IN BUSINESS Hillmount Garden Centre’s plants have been blooming in gardens across Northern Ireland for 75 years and, last Saturday (2 January), the garden centre celebrated its best trading day since opening its doors in 1940.

Then, at the Garden Trade News and Garden Radio Awards, Hillmount Garden Centre beat off competition from garden centres across the UK to win two national awards.

Hillmount won the Gold award for ‘The Greatest Christmas Sizzle Team of 2015’ recognising their efforts in selling barbecues in winter to customers who wanted to use a BBQ for cooking their Christmas turkey. And, the family owned garden centre also won Northern Ireland ‘Greatest Festive Catering Team’ celebrating excellence in teamwork in The Gardener’s Rest.

Alan Mercer, managing director, Hillmount Garden Centre, said: “Last year was a very special year at Hillmount as we celebrated 75 years in the business. Starting 2016 with these two awards for our BBQ department and café is testament to the efforts we put into the business in the run up to Christmas.

Trevor Pfeiffer, managing director of The Garden Communications and Media Company, publishers of Garden Trade News, said: "Our Greatest Awards are all about celebrating excellence in garden centre teamwork."

Hillmount Garden Centre has two stores – one on Upper Braniel Road, Belfast, and one on Belfast Road, Bangor. For news of spring events and the latest offers at Hillmount – www.hillmount.co.uk, www.facebook.com/hillmountgardencentre, www.twitter.com/hillmountgarden

GROSVENOR KITTED OUT

BY AMPM AHEAD OF ULSTER SCHOOL’S CUP Grosvenor Grammar School First XV Rugby captain Daniel Martin, along with the School’s Principal Dr. Frances Vasey and his First XV teammates, pictured alongside Aaron McKinney, Director of AM Property Management (NI) Ltd., sponsors of the team’s kit, prior to its encounter with Belfast Royal Academy in the second round of the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup.

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News angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

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BloomMagBelfast

NORTH DOWN CRAFT COLLECTIVE – VALENTINE MARKET The North Down Craft Collective will be back on Saturday 13th February for their Valentine market!

After their break in January this enthusiastic group of local crafters, designers and food producers will be back at Holywood Old School for their monthly market. As well as the regular collective members there will be 8 guest crafters bringing you quality, handcrafted gifts to spoil your valentine this year!

The entrance fee of £1 will be donated to this month’s charity NI Chest, Heart & Stroke, whose volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions about the work of the charity.

The NDCC are planning a host of exciting events this year including an Easter themed market in March supporting Dogs Trust NI and a Spring market in April supporting Woodland Trust NI. Apart from their summer break in July the collective will be holding a market on the second Saturday each month.

For further information or to find out how to become a guest crafter please contact Debbie or William at ndcraftcollective@gmail.com.

HOME FROM HOME AS COUPLE ENTER COMPETITIVE HOUSING MARKET Sharon and Chris Gregg were the first people to buy a house through Vision Property when the Belfast-based company started in 2006.

Now, in a vote of confidence in the expanding estate agency, the couple are running its newest branch in Bangor. Sharon spent time working in the company’s Grand Parade office in 2015 before she and Chris decided that the future lay in helping it open its third office in North Down. It also has a branch in Dundonald, which was established just seven months ago.

She said: “Bangor may not appear to be the obvious choice for opening a new branch of an estate agency, since it is already home to quite a few. But we believe the people of North Down will be attracted by our unique fixed-fee approach to both selling and letting at a time when every penny counts.

Vision Property, founded in 2006, offers a fixed sale price of £950 with no upfront fees, a bright modern image and personal service. In the rental sector, the company manages more than 150 properties and has more than 200 non-managed properties on its books. It offers to find a tenant for a £250 finder’s fee.

Said Sharon: “Whether you’re buying or selling, or even just considering it, call in for a chat and a cup of coffee to see how different we are. We like to think we blend the future of property sales with old fashioned family service.

We also challenge anyone to beat us on price.”

For further information visit us at: www.visionpropertyagents.co.uk

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CLAIRE FROM TULLYCARNET IS MARSH TRUST ‘NI VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR’ Claire Stockham from Tullycarnet was recently presented with the Marsh Trust NI Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of the volunteering work she does with Barnardo’s NI. Claire has been a volunteer play worker with Barnardo’s NI East Belfast Family Connections service based at Tullycarnet Primary School for four years and volunteers two mornings a week.

Lynda Wilson, Director Barnardo’s NI said: “We are delighted Claire has been presented with this award. She works alongside Barnardo’s staff delivering early intervention child development sessions for toddlers aged 18 months to three years to support their learning and development while their parents and grandparents take part in Incredible Years parenting programmes and adult education. The crèche follows the Highscope approach and involves messy play, arts and crafts, free play time, story time and outside play and Claire is involved in all aspects. Usually there are around ten toddlers in the sessions each morning with individual play plans to support their learning.

We really value the contribution Claire makes to the team.”

Claire, who is mum of two says volunteering is always something she always wanted to do: “I first became involved with Barnardo’s as a parent and I really wanted to give something back for the support and help I received. You can see the difference in the children over time, they become more confident, independent and happier in themselves and the parents are happier about leaving their children.

“I think volunteering is really important and everyone should give up a few hours to volunteer if they can. I definitely feel part of the team, the role fits in with my family and it can be flexible if I need it to be. I volunteered before and it’s something I’ve always felt strongly about. By volunteering you’re helping Barnardo’s give more families the support and services they need.”

For more information about volunteering with Barnardo’s NI contact heather.bingham@barnardos.org.uk or visit www.barnardos.org.uk/northernireland and search volunteering.

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6

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ACTION CANCER LAUNCHES NEW YORK CITY MARATHON 2016 If you are a runner, then the New York City Marathon will definitely be on your bucket list! Why not do something amazing this year and join Team Action Cancer to run the world’s largest marathon on Sunday 6th November 2016.

Action Cancer’s Fundraising Officer Arlene Creighton said, “New York is one of the six World Marathon Majors, the race day is spectacular – a carnival atmosphere takes over the city with 2.5 million spectators lining the streets and bands playing on every corner. Nothing prepares runners for the experience when you complete the NYC Marathon.

You don’t need to be a super fit athlete to enter; all you need is the determination and the desire to make a difference. Our events team will provide you with all the practical advice and support you need to kick start your fundraising and help make running the New York Marathon 2016 very achievable.

Go for it – sign up today – you won’t regret it! To guarantee your place, all that’s required is a deposit which can be paid in instalments, then a minimum sponsorship of £2,875 to be raised by November 2016. All monies raised will fund Action Cancer’s lifesaving services in Northern Ireland including breast screening, Big Bus mobile unit, M.O.T. health checks, as well as complementary therapy and counselling support services.

To sign-up or learn more on how you can make a difference and what support Action Cancer can offer, contact Arlene Creighton on 028 9080 3379 or email run@actioncancer.org

COCO HAIR & BEAUTY ARRIVES IN BALLYHACKAMORE Coco hair and Beauty opened in the heart of Ballyhackamore in December 2015. With years of experience and having trained in some of Northern Irelands most prestigious academies the team are ready and waiting to tend to all your hair and beauty needs.

As colour specialists for high fashion, premium Italian brand Kemon, we pride ourselves on the premium results we achieve. We are also experts in Hair extensions providing our clients with premium bond or microloop options.

At Coco we also have a passion for beauty, offering everything from waxing, tan, eyelash extensions and makeup.

To avail of any of our services we would be delighted to welcome you into our warm, relaxing, friendly salon.

For more information, please visit us at 1 Library Court, Ballyhackamore, Belfast BT4 3GE. If you’d like to make a booking, please call us on 028 9543 9890

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Cafe Smart Full page.pdf

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29/01/2016

15:31

Time for a Change?

Whether you’d like to find a new jobor you’re thinking of self-employment, the Connect Programme can provide you with the expert advice, training and support to help you achieve your goals.

Connect is Women in Business’ innovative new programme designed especially for women who are unemployed or working fewer than 16 hours/ week. The programme is absolutely FREE and is designed to be flexible. You can access as much or as little of the programme as you need.

The Connect Programme has been instrumental in motivating and supporting me on the road to setting-up my own business. The advice provided has been invaluable and I've met some great people along the way.

Whether you're just at the initial idea stage or almost set to go with your business, there is help and support for everyone. I cannot recommend this programme highly enough to other women.

HEATHER, BELFAST

If you’re looking for work, Connect offers half-day masterclasses on CV and application writing, interview and presentation skills. To help you move from unemployment to self-employment the programme covers everything from digital marketing to securing your first sales. In addition, Connect offers an accredited start-up training course in partnership with East Belfast Enterprise.

Also available is 1-2-1 mentoring. This gives you a one hour tailored session with a specialist mentor, focusing in on what you need. With a combination of masterclasses, training and 1-2-1 mentoring, Connect will help you make 2016 your most rewarding year yet!

For more information and to sign up to this FREE programme visit our website: www.womeninbusinessni.com/connect

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VAT F R E E SALE NOW ON

info@terrafirmani.co.uk | www.terrafirmani.co.uk

VOTED BEST DAY SPA IN NORTHERN IRELAND

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ADVANCED COSMETIC DENTISTRY FOR EAST BELFAST Dental Excellence, the experts in advanced cosmetic and Implant dentistry have arrived in East Belfast. Dental Excellence is the brainchild of Dr. Chris McHale BDS and Dr. Khalid Hussain BDS. They have recently taken over and totally modernised a large dental practice on the Belmont Road.

At Dental Excellence every patient and every smile is important. From your arrival in the bright and airy lobby, to reading through the smile menu whilst waiting, to having your treatment or consultation with one of the highly skilled team, your patient journey will be exceptional.

The clinic boasts state of the art facilities, a new digital imaging suite equipped with 3D scanner, wall mounted tv’s in the treatment suites with your choice of entertainment, Online appointment booking and a fully integrated practice computer system.

Dental excellence are proud of their award winning Cosmetic and implant dentistry. The clinic also offers orthodontic and endodontic treatments, tooth whitening, dental hygiene visits, emergency appointments and general NHS dentistry.

With over 30 staff the clinic is not small, Dr. McHale felt that such a large clinic that cares for so many patients should have the best of facilities. Over the past 4 months he and his design team have totally revamped the premesis and installed the provision of advanced treatments that patients would normally have had to be referred out to other clinics to have done.

Having finished all renovations and setup the clinic now welcomes all patients, old and new for any aspect of dental or facial cosmetic treatment. Dental excellence is now truly a one stop shop for all patient needs.

Call now for your FREE consultation. 02890 471503

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Pastoral Assistant WANTED Orangefield Presbyterian Church 15 hours per week

TESCO EXTRA

KNOCKNAGONEY CAR PARK

SUNDAY 21ST FEBRUARY 9.00AM - 12.00PM

£5.00 PER CAR

(DONATED TO CHARITY) OPEN 8AM FOR SET UP

Salary: Pro rata Band A APP Salary Scale £17695 Commencing 4 April 2016 Application form and information pack available from the Church Office Phone: 028 9079 9391 Email: office@orangefield.org.uk Closing date: Friday 19 February 12 noon.

THE BEAUTIFUL FLOWER COMPANY

VALENTINE OFFER! With every Valentine's Bouquet ordered, enjoy

2 complimentary daypasses to Virgin Active Health Club & Spa Belfast!

TO ORDER: 02890 650 760 370 UPPER NEWTONARDS ROAD WWW.THEBEAUTIFULFLOWERCOMPANY.CO.UK

LOCAL

EXPERT

BELMONT FOOT CLINIC

A healthy start to the new year with Belmont Foot Clinic Being fit and playing sport is great for us. It helps prevent numerous diseases, improves our health and boosts our well-being.

However, this can have a somewhat detrimental effect on our feet.

The force transferred through each foot while running is equivalent to 2.5 times bodyweight. Couple this with an average of 1000 strides per mile and the work that the feet do for us quickly adds up! Common injuries that we see at Belmont Foot Clinic in sporty people are:

• Shin splints • Plantar fasciitis • Ankle sprains

• Torn ligaments • Back pain • Knee pain

These are in addition to problems like corns, callus, blisters and athlete’s foot.

Sports Podiatry The podiatry team at Belmont Foot Clinic takes special interest in how the muscles, ligaments, bones and joints of the lower limbs and feet are used for specific sports. This is known as biomechanics. For example, the biomechanics of the runner is different to that of the cyclist, which is different from the gymnast, and so on.

What can the podiatrist do?

As with many injuries, prevention is always better than cure. At Belmont Foot Clinic we can offer a foot and lower limb screen, in addition to the treatment of injuries. We assess how the feet and lower limbs work while walking and running, often with the aid of video gait analysis. This involves capturing video of the feet, which we can use to examine step by step how the foot functions and how an injury may be caused. In addition to this, we carry out a physical examination, focusing on the affected area, as well as an assessment of footwear, posture, training, and other musculoskeletal factors.

From that the podiatry team at Belmont Foot Clinic will formulate a treatment plan that is specific for the individual sportsperson’s need. This may involve a stretching and strengthening programme, advice on footwear, modifying training activities and the issue of special insoles called Orthotics. The podiatrist normally works in connection with other health professionals in treating many injuries and referrals can be made when appropriate.

For further information or assessment, whether you are just getting into being more healthy, a weekend warrior or a seasoned athlete, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with the podiatry team at Belmont Foot Clinic… Putting your sporty feet first!

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In the heOrt of

Ballyhackamore!

Fabulous natural wools and yarns!

Fabrics, ribbons, buttons and more!

Workshops!

Crafting holidays!

Find us on:

2b Sandown Road, Belfast BT5 6GY www.textilestudiobelfast.co.uk

028 9065 0191

hello@textilestudiobelfast.co.uk

Drop in To Knit every Thursday afternoon

getting our stamp of approval this month . . .

Wee Yarn Designs Spoil your Valentine this year with these cosy cable pompom hats in 100% merino wool from Wee Yarn Designs. ÂŁ35

Natural salt lamp

Available at the ND Craft Collective Market on 13th Feb at Holywood Old School or email debbie@weeyarndesigns.com'

A piece of Himalayan salt rock in its most natural form.

These salt crystal lamps are made from salt crystal rocks formed 100's of millions of years ago in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Natures Way - 305 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JH 02890 471333

Adorable vintage milk pots Doris & Jeanie 25 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 02985 438177 ÂŁ21.99

A drop of goodness for the mind, body and soul All natural, spring water drinks.

Available in health food stores. www.panaceadrinks.com

Valentines Rose Beautiful Flower Company Unit 1 Earlswood House, Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast 02890 650760 Get full details and prices in store or online.

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Sewing ROOM

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John 07740 320 442 or Alan 07739 469 732

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Bespoke Curtains Soft Furnishings Roman Blinds Bridal Alterations

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Mon & Fri: 9-6 (Closed Wed) Tues & Thurs: 9-7 Sat: 9-5 Unit 16, Hanwood Business Park, Old Dundonald Rd

Tel: 9048 9642 or Mob 077 0615 6331

Time for a Change?

If you are thinking of setting up a new business or planning to return to work let the Connect Programme help you get there.

Connect is a unique programme especially designed for women who are economically inactive or working fewer than 16 hours per week.

We’ll help you get the skills you need to achieve your ambitions, with a range of support including: • Masterclasses covering a range of topics • 1-2-1 mentoring and support • Business training in partnership with East Belfast Enterprise

Connect Ad (Bloom Mag 134x95).indd 1

Make 2016 your most rewarding year yet with help from the Connect Programme

The programme is completely FREE and entirely Flexible, fitting in with any other commitments you may have.

To register, visit our website: www.womeninbusinessni.com/ connect For more information email: connect@womeninbusinessni.com or phone 0845 607 6041

18/01/2016 15:07

Holywood Arches, 52 Upper Newtownards Road www.hoosebelfast.co.uk | hoosebelfast@gmail.com | Tel: 028 9065 8216

th & 14th

12th, 13

February

Special 3 Course Menu ÂŁ19.95pp Booking Advised. Available 5pm - 9pm

Visit our website to view our Valentines Menu

ch

15th Mar

2 Courses ÂŁ14.95pp Available 12pm - 4pm

10% OFF Dermalogica retail products in February

249 Castlereagh Road

028 90 450 281 Track Your Repair @ clrbelfast.co.uk Mon-Thur 10am-6:30pm Fri 10am-4:30pm Sat 10am-1pm

iPad 9:45 AM

We Repair Laptops - Desktops - iPad - iPhone PS3 - PS4 - X360 - Xbox One Samsung Galaxy Phone and Tablets

Screen Replacements - Liquid Damage - Battery Replacements Virus Removal - Advanced BGA Repairs - Disc Read Errors Red Ring of Death - Yellow Light of Death - Graphical Issues Epson Compatible Ink £10 for FULL Sets Ritek CD-R, DVD-R & Blu-Ray Media In-store GENUINE Laptop Chargers From £25

Working out is easy with our complimentary day pass. Rev up your routine, beat boredom and discover fun for all the family: • Crystal clear pool • Over 80 inspirational classes • every week • Innovative gym floor • UK’s largest swim school • Club-V, our Ofsted approved • childcare

Call us today to book your visit 0289 076 5035 Mertoun Hall 106 Belfast Road Holywood Belfast BT18 9QY

Ulster V Dragons

Tuesday 02/02/16

Kingspan Stadium, 7.35pm

Belfast Giants V Sheffield Steelers

Ulster V Glasgow Warriors

Frid 12/02/16 & Sat 13/02/16

Friday 5th February

Friday 12th February

Kingspan Stadium, 7.30pm

Ulster V Scarlets

Sunday 21st February Kingspan Stadium, 2.30pm

Ulster V Zebre

Friday 4th March

Kingspan Stadium, 7.35pm

Elite League 7:00PM

Belfast Giants V SG Cortina Olympic Series 7:00PM

Tuesday 16/02/16

Belfast Giants V Dundee Stars Elite League 7:00PM

Friday 19/02/16

Belfast Giants V Nottingham Panthers Elite League 7:00PM

Tuesday 23/02/16

Belfast Giants V Cardiff Devils Elite League 7:00PM

ALL OVER CUT, COLOUR AND TREATMENT STARTS FROM £30 ALL WEEK T BAR FROM £35 HALF HEAD FROM £35 FULL HEAD FROM £45 BRIDAL UP STYLE FROM £15 BLOW DRY FROM £8 GHD CURLS £12 ACRYLIC NAILS £35 GEL NAILS £30 GEMS GLITTER £3 PER NAIL IN FILLS £25 EXPRESS UP TO ONE WEEK LASHES £15 SINGLE INDIVIDUAL 6 WEEK LASHES £45 BASIC OR BRIDAL MAKE UP FROM £20 SPRAY TAN £15 EYEBROW WAX £5 EYEBROW THREADING £7 EYEBROW WAX & TINT £10 3D EYEBROW HIGH DEFINITION £17 18 INCH HAIR EXTENSIONS STARTING FROM £280 18 INCH EXTRA THICK STARTING FROM £330

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We know your love for all things handcrafted, so each month we’ll be sharing our favourites found while browsing markets and local boutiques.

Bespoke Frames NI was set up by a local Mum Sinead York, after time off having her kids she wanted to set up a business working from home.

Bespoke frames NI make personalised wall art for all occasions. Kids love the themed frames which can include their favourite characters such as Princesses, Minecraft, My Little Pony and Minions as well as several others.

Grannies and Granda’s, who can be so difficult to buy for, adore keepsake frames from their grandchildren. Even husbands and boyfriends love the Star Wars and Super Hero frames!

They are also a great way of recording a special date or event such as a Christening, Birthday, Marriage, Anniversary or Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day and Graduations.

It can be very hard to choose presents which really mean something special to someone - a bespoke frame is definitely one of the best ways to do it.

If you are looking for a unique and creative bespoke frame for your own home, or for a present for a friend or family member Bespoke Frames NI can create something for you that will be cherished for years to come.

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Check out Sinead’s facebook page for more information and contact details. facebook.com/bespokeframesni 07788956562

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Fresh and Fabulous in February LOOKING GREAT FOR VALENTINES DAY

UP TO

20% OFF Cosmetic treatments UP TO

30% OFF

Fine line & wrinkle treatments 115-117 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AD T: 028 9047 1503

www.yourdentalexcellence.com

Home Styling & Decor News

Dekko Bird

There’s no denying it that when February comes around, love is in the air!

Whatever St Valentine’s Day means to you, whether it’s a blissfully romantic night in or making Valentine’s cards with your children, I think we should all share in celebrating this special festival of love and (just as importantly), friendship.

After all, we have just survived another long and dreary winter, so what better way to brighten up our homes than with a little splash of red, the colour of love?! Decorating your home for St Valentine’s is a light-hearted (pun unintended!) and fun way to celebrate this centuries-old tradition, but fear not, you needn't overdose on sugary pink fluff to give your home that romantic touch - here are my tips for doing Valentine’s decor in style!

Firstly, rather than shrouding your entire home in red hearts, choose a couple of areas to focus on, e.g. above the mantelpiece, a hall console or the front door. Some of the loveliest, most understated ways to introduce Valentine’s decor are often the simplest: little handcrafted hearts hanging from an arrangement of branches set into a jug or laid along a mantel, a heart-shaped wreath made of red berries and twigs adorning a front door, red and white pom-pom bunting draped along a fireplace or heart-shaped fairy lights strung up within an alcove. Try Doris & Jeannie on Belmont Rd for hanging heart decorations, or if you’re a keen crafter, why not make your own from felt or card or simply knit some little hearts up and tie them with ribbon - the Textile Studio on Sandown Rd will be happy to advise you on a simple pattern.

Inject some warmth and fun into your living room with heart cushions, a cosy throw to snuggle under with your loved one and lots of candles in little glass jars dotted around the room or along the mantelpiece. You can even bring a romantic note into your bathroom or kitchen with heart motif towels, linens and ceramic wares.

If the usual red and pink decor scheme doesn’t float your boat, try combining black, silver and gold accessories for a chic, luxe look - metallic heart lights give a beautiful twinkly glow and look striking alongside black and gold. Visit Etsy.com where you can order romantic digital prints for as little as £3 that you can frame and set onto a mantelpiece for an edgier, modern display.

‘LOVE’ print / £10 / Etsy Heart cushion / £5 / Asda Hand towel / £8 / BHS

Lastly, don’t forget to check my blog for more Valentine’s gift and decor ideas this month!

Follow my blog at www.dekkobird.com | twitter and instagram: @dekkobird |

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No Hassle - No Stress We take care of all your dogs grooming needs in one of our beautiful customised mobile parlours. We offer everything your special loved one could need!

• Hydro-bathing • Shampoo & Condition • Clipping • Deodorising • Grooming

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with

Slimming World TUESDAY BALLYHACKAMORE Bloomfield Collegiate School Astoria Gardens, 5.30pm & 7.30pm

THURSDAY

BELMONT (Morning Group) Belmont Presbyterian Church Sydenham Avenue, 9.30am HOLYWOOD Holywood CFC Community Hall 08 High Street (beside Yard Coffee shop) 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Sally: 07738 713 436

visit the website for delicious recipes

slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000

£495 £195

A Belfast Mum Donn

a Bell

With Valentine's Day fast approaching, I've been thinking about love. My husband proposed to me on February 14th 2011, and at that moment I thought I'd reached the peak of my 'love experience', but then later that year, I had a revelation.

I can still remember, and almost feel, the almighty rush of love I felt when my first child was born. It was a tidal wave, a surge of complete certainty that I loved this little wriggly thing in my arms, and that I would do anything to keep her safe. I know for some mums it takes a bit longer to feel that certainty, but for me, it was instant. I think I scared my poor husband somewhat by telling him, shortly after we brought her home, that if it came to a choice between him and her, it would be her, every time. Now, I love my husband a lot, but the love you feel for your kids is different. He gets it now; he adores our girls and (I hope) would choose them before me, if he had to.

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Having a second child was scary as I wondered how I could ever love another person in the way I loved my first, but my heart just got bigger, made room for her. Her birth was longer and much more painful, but still, the surge came. A more protective love, a different love, as I knew she would be the final child, but a love just as big and just as true.

Now that the girls are bigger, there are days which feel difficult, and behaviour that is occasionally extremely disagreeable. When I'm standing in my hall dealing with a stroppy pre-schooler who's having a tantrum about wearing a coat when it's snowing outside, while the youngest smears jam up the wall, I might not like my children much (just for a brief moment!), but the love is still there.

I'd still take any knock for them, take an illness for them, give up both kidneys if they needed them you know the score.

So, while we're all surrounded by love hearts and flowers, champagne and cards declaring undying love, take a moment to remember the person that loved you first, and loved you the most - your mum.

www.abelfastmum.com

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The Danish Girl I have heard a lot of people saying how much they enjoyed 'The Danish Girl', how Eddie Redmayne's performance was oscar worthy and how they could easily see him on a winning streak after his portrayal of Stephen Hawking in 'The Theory if Everything'.

I have also read rave reviews about how commanding Alicia Vikander's performance was, almost to the point of overshadowing Eddie Redmayne's.

The story is that of Danish artists Einar (Eddie Redmayne) and Gerda Wegener (Alicia Vikander). The story is loosely based on their lives and as such is not true to the book it is based on. The story tells of their lives as artists, happily married in Copenhagen until Einar slowly begins to reveal his desire to live as a female. The story unfolds to reveal how the desire to live as a female becomes all encompassing.

You get a real sense of how much Gerda adores Einar and how she tries to continue the marriage while

allowing and indeed encouraging this side of Einar to develop. It is quickly revealed that this is not simply a side to his personality but in fact the person he really is and was truly born to be. As such the culmination of the film is his journey through pioneering surgery to undergo what we now know as sex reassignment surgery. With all that in mind, I really expected to utterly love this film. Unfortunately it just didn't hit the mark for me. There is no doubt that this film was superbly done from the waterfront scenes in Copenhagen to the artistic flamboyance of 1920's Paris.

The acting was extremely good in both cases but for me there was just something missing. Eddie Redmayne did play a convincing woman but I would have really liked to see him play it with more depth. In fact, I think this is where Alicia Vikander played the better part, because she came across as altogether more real. You could feel her desperation to hold on to what she dearly loved while getting a sense that all the time she knew she would eventually lose it.

As always with films, they divide opinion and this is no exception. If the Golden Globes are an indication if the Oscar winners then they both look to be unlucky this time. Despite both being nominated in the Best Actor/Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama category with some very stiff competition, neither of them won, losing out to Leonardo Di Caprio for 'The Revenant' and Brie Larson for 'Room' respectively. The actual Oscar winners remain to be seen. As always, go and see it, you may love it!

Tickets for all events at Strand Arts Centre can be booked in person at the Strand, by phoning (028) 9065 5830 or online at www.strandartscentre.com.

oscar classics

F E B RU ARY

MOV IE

L ISTING S

AMERICAN BEAUTY 4th & 11th Feb LAWRENCE OF ARABIA 18th & 25th Feb

Capture The Flag

Deadpool

THE DEER HUNTER 3rd & 10th March

free FRIDAY TEENAGE KICKS

AT THE STRAND

5th Feb - Inception (12) 12th Feb - Super Size Me (12) 19th Feb - The Matrix (15)

Febraury is a busy month for big new movie releases at the Strand Arts Centre.

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26th Feb - Blade Runner (15)

free SATURDAY MINORS' CLUB 6th Feb - Big Hero 6 (PG) 7 yrs+

The Divergent Series: Allegiant

13th Feb - Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (U)

Goosebumps

20th Feb - Wall-E (U) 27th Feb - Jurassic Park (PG) 9 yrs+

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Fri 8.30 - 5.30 Sat 9.00 - 5.00

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what’s on Toddler

Groups

Monday

Wednesday

Calvary Mums & Toddlers.

10.30-12.00am. £1 per family.

100 Dee St, BT4 028 9073 2331 Little Stars The Salvation Army 110 Cregagh Road Toys/snacks/craft/music. £1.50 per family. 10am-12 term time for 0-4 years. 028 9045 4466.

Sydenham Parent & Toddler Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family Inverary CC BT4 1RN 028 9047 1456 St Finnians 10-11.30 Cregagh Park, 9079 2793.

Wandsworth Mums & Chums 10-11.45am. Wandsworth CC. £1 26a Belmont Church Rd. 07903 674698

Busy Bees 10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Knock Road. Tel: 028 9065 3413

Tuesday

10.30-12 37 North Road, BT5 5NE Community, 464 Castlereagh Road 02890 799 391 www.orangefield.org.uk St Colmcille’s Parent & Toddler 10am term time St Colmcille’s Parish Hall (opposite Tesco’s) in Ballyhackamore. 191a Upper N’ards Rd 10-12pm W’stock Rd, 028 9045 7654

Thursday

Albertbridge Congregational 10.30-12.15 Woodstock Link Donation £1 CFC Mops & Tots 9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays) £1 for one child, £1.50 total for more. Tea/coffee/juice/snacks.

McQuiston Presbyterian Toddler Group Castlereagh Road, Belfast Tuesdays 10.15-11.30am, £1 Per Family Includes Juice, Toast & Tea/Coffee, Biscuits Mersey Street Presb.

10-11.45am term time. £1.

Mersey St Presbyterian 028 90 657025 St Donards Church Tel: 028 9065 2321 £1 for adults. Tea/coffee/juice Strandtown Baptist Tots 10.00- 11.30am (term time) Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon Court BT4 2AB Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult Tots & Co 10.15- 11.45am (term time) Cregagh Methodist Church £1.50 per family (incl juice/snack & tea. 28-30 Cregagh Rd. 028 9045 7564

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email your event details to: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

36

10-11.30am £1 per family Grand Parade 028 9065 8946.

Cregagh Mums & Tots 10-12pm Cregagh CC. Mount Merrion Avenue. Tel: 028 9040 1444 Gilnahirk Presbyterian Thursdays 10-11.30am. £1 per family.

161 Gilnahirk Rd. Laura 07708 000025 Kirkpatrick Memorial Presb Parents & Toddlers. 10-11.30am Upper Newtownards Rd £1 donation Knock Parent & Toddler 10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian 53 Kings Road, Gillian 07803 117619.

123Tots Exchange Church 179 - 187 Albert Bridge Road 10am - 11.45am £2 registration, £1 per week includes snack and craft for kids

Friday Bank Baby Breakfast Club 10:00am - 11:30am, Bank Cafe Bar 20 - 22 Belmont Road Any Tea or Coffee - £1 St Columba’s Mums & Tots 9.45-11.45 (term time). 29 Kings Road

Ballyhackamore Library 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Chatterbooks 9-11 yr olds reading group (third Mon of month) 3.30-4.30 Knit & Natter 2-4pm Book Pack (1st Mon) Bedtime Stories 7pm. Women’s Reading Book (Last Mon of the month) 7-8.

Bean Blessed Tea/ coffee, scones, pastries. 10.30-12 Harding Memorial Rainbows girls 4-7yrs Monday 6pm Brownies girls 7-10yrs Monday 7pm Guides 10-14yrs Mondays 7pm.

Contact Clare 07905 556825.

Ladies Coffee Morning 1st Mon of month 10.30am 37 North Rd 028 9065 7876 East Belfast Mission Skainos Building skainos.org Skainos Square Irish Classes 10am - 12pm (Upper Intermediate) 6pm - 7pm (Irish Lang. Singing Class) EBM Homework Club P4 - P6: 3.30 - 5.30 Female Body Camp: 7pm - 8pm.

FREE trial. Contact Sara Eaches on 07919146434 Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 .nistars.com Singing & dancing 7-8pm Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668. Children’s Drama Academy 5-6pm. Children & Teens carnival drumming 6.30pm-7.30pm.

Aerobics 7-8pm. Combat 8.15-9.30pm

Belmont Tower www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower Childrens dance classes 4-7pm East Belfast Wine Makers Monthly Meeting Meditation 7pm - 9pm East Belfast Mission Skainos Building skainos.org Compass Womens Group 7-9pm Street League Football at Waterworks 3G Cliftonville 3pm - 5pm

what’s on Irish Classes: 7pm - 9pm (Beginners) 7pm - 9pm (Upper Intermediate) 7pm - 8.30pm (Set Dancing Class) Wandsworth Community Playclub 3-4 yr olds 10am-12.

Painting for Pleasure 11am-1pm Kids Irish dancing 5-6.30pm, Aerobics 7-8pm. Appreciation of Art 7-9pm. Wasps seniors group last Tues of month 2-3.30pm

29th NI Girls Brigade Cregagh Congregational. Explorers (37) 6:45-8:15pm. Helen 07938 521823.

Belmont Tower www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower Baby massage 10am-1pm.

39th Old Boys 7-9pm PlayBall NI 10am - 1pm Mindfulness Classes 6.30pm - 8.30pm Over 60’s Lunch Club

12.30pm. 3 courses for £3. Grand Parade. Tel: 028 9065 2314 to book.

Gilnahirk Men’s Group Jack Britton Hall. Tea/coffee/chat & a speaker. 10.30-12 until 29th April.

Girls Brigade 3 yrs - P4 6.15pm. P5 upwards 7.30pm Luncheon Club For senior citizens. Cregagh Methodist.

12 noon. £1.50. Pre book meals at the East Belfast Mission Skainos Bulding skainos.org Compass Kidz Gap 10am-12pm.

Going Green Gardening 2-4pm.

Ladies Senior Friendship Club 2pm 3.30pm Irish Classes: 5.30pm - 7pm (Family Class) 7pm - 9pm (Beginners Class) 7pm - 9pm (Intermediate Exam Classes) Strand Arts Centre “Wacky Wednesdays” All shows, all day for £3. strandartscentre.com Wandsworth Community Sewing Group 10am-12noon. Flower Arranging 1.30-3.30pm. Yoga 7-8.30pm Yoga Belfast Pregnancy Yoga @ Gilnahirk Primary.

6.45-7.45pm. Community drop in class @ Ice Bowl 7-8pm. yogabelfast.com

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email your event details to: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk

29th NI Girls Brigade Cregagh Congregational.

Company Section (8-18) 6:45-10pm.

Helen 07938 521823.

Ballyhackamore Library 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Rhythm & Rhyme (1st & 3rd Thurs of the month) 11.15am. Adult reading group.

Belmont Tower www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower Art classes 10am-1pm. Baby Sensory Classes 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am 0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon 6.30pm-8.30pm East Belfast Historic (Monthly Meeting) Mindfulness Courses 6.30-8.30pm Senior Citizens Luncheon Club Midday @ Ballymac Centre. Hot lunch & social time. alison@ballymac.org East Belfast Mission Skainos Building skainos.org Vibe Academy - Weekly streetdance. p1-p4 3.30-4.30pm P5-P7 4.305.30pm 1st yr+ 6.45-8pm. £6 per class. Lisa 07736 315420. Compass EBM Homework Club. P4 - P6. 3.30 - 5.30 Over 50’s Luncheon 12.30pm - 2pm Beginners Tin Whistle 2pm - 3pm The Academy Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm. Age 7+ £5p/wk. 77 Holywood Rd. 028 9508 8818 Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668. Needlework 10am-12pm. Spanish mums & tots 11am-12pm. Spanish for preschoolers 2.15-3pm. Spanish for children 3.154pm. Boot Camp 7-8pm. Core Combat 8.30-10pm.

Albertbridge Congregational 6 Woodstock Link 028 9045 7434 Friday Friendship. 10.30am-12.30pm.

Ballyhackamore Library 1-3 Eastleigh Drive 028 9050 9204 Chill Out Family Story Time. 3.30pm.

Belmont Tower www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belmont-tower Art Classes

East Mission Skainos Building skainos.org Fusion - Weekly programme of games, crafts & fun for p1-p7’s. 6.30-8pm Irish Class: 10am - 12pm (Intermediate) Street League 5-a-side Football 1.30pm - 5.30pm. Shafestbury Community Centre The Academy Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm. Ages 3-6 years. £5 p/wk. 77 Holywood Rd. 028 9508 8818 Wandsworth Community Painting for Pleasure 11am-1pm Childrens Ju Jitsu 6-8pm Fitness & Boxing Class 8.30-9.30pm Shiloh Hall 07712 299206, 76 The Mount, ND Coffee Morning 10:30-12.

37 North Road, BT5 5NE Searchlight Club p1-p7. 10.30-12.

East Belfast Mission Skainos Building skainos.org Walking Trips from 10am.

Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 Stage school 10-1pm www.nistars.com The Academy 10am Lego Club. 11am Claycrazy Club. £5 per session. 77 Holywood Rd. 028 9508 8818 Yoga Belfast Pregnancy Yoga @ Physioworks Gilnahirk. 10.30-11.45am @ Community drop in class 10.30-11.45am @ Gilnahirk Primary. yogabelfast.com Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668 STX/Kickboxing 10am-11.30am Park Run Every Saturday in Victoria Park 9.30am - FREE Event

Strand Cinema & NI Stars Holywood Road, BT4 Singling & dancing 1.30-3.30pm www.nistars.com S.D. Bells Tea & Coffee House Java Jive Jazz Brunch Brunch 11am -2.30pm

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LOCAL

EXPERT IN A HEART BEAT It’s no exaggeration that the heart is a vital organ in our bodies, and sometimes we just don’t take as much care of it until a problem sets in.

This is such a huge topic to talk about in such a small column covering all sorts of conditions from blood pressure to cholesterol, angina, strokes and the list goes on… so I will just focus on a few preventive measures.

I often talk about stress and diet and again they both play a huge role in keeping the cardiovascular system healthy.

Increasing your daily intake of EFAs(Essential Fatty Acids) which are essential for blood circulation. These are also known as Omega 3 and omega 6 found in oily Fish Including Mackerel, Salmon, Sardines, Seeds like Flax, Pumpkin, Chia and Nuts especially Walnuts almonds or brazils.

Recent studies show that a daily glass of Beetroot juice may help to lower blood pressure, Eating a balanced range of Fruit and vegetables that are deep in colour are rich in antioxidants again needed to help keep the heart in check!!

A few Herbs and Remedies I recommend to help combat Cardiovascular Disease (CV D) Co Enzyme Q10 and Selenium may reduce the risk of cardiac mortality by more than 50% Red yeast rice and Garlic to help maintain normal blood cholesterol levels Hawthorn berry tea or Magnesium to help with muscle function around the heart Vitamin E is known for its blood thinning properties as is the herb Ginkgo Biloba and are both useful in treating conditions such as tinnitus and Raynaud’s disease I won’t dwell on about the things we need to reduce in our diet and life style but I do recommend we stop and listen to our heart beat every now and then and just realise how important it is.

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Bloomfield Auctions Relocate Bloomfield Auctions are locating to new and larger premises but still remaining local and within the Owen O'Cork Mill on the Beersbridge Road. We are reopening on Monday the 8th February with the an auction on Tuesday 9th February and every week thereafter. For full viewing times etc please visit our website www.bloomfieldauctions.co.uk We would also like to thank all our patrons for their continued support whilst our move has been taking place.

Bloomfield Auctions are always on the lookout for antiques, art, jewellery, anything with a connection to the Royal Ulster or Royal Irish Constabularies, war related to include medals, weapons etc, vintage toys, stamps, postcards, coins, silver and so much more.

We also offer Probate Valuations & house clearance services.

If you've got something to sell or been left a house that needs cleared, then call us on 02890456404.

UNIT 22,

THE PROPERTY BLOOM AMPM

Belmont

IMPORTANT NEWS IF YOU ARE THINKING OF SELLING A rush to purchase ‘Buy To Let’ properties before a stamp duty hike arrives in April is boasting the Belfast property market!

AMPMni are currently seeing a lot more investors snapping up potential investment properties than usual, at this time of year. This is due to a new 3% stamp duty surcharge on purchases of additional residential properties over £40,000, on top of the existing stamp duty rates. Which has see increased number of sales over the December/January period and forecast to continue into March, driving house prices up in a normally quiet time.

All this is means that it is a great time to be putting a house on the market, especially if you are hoping for a quick sale. All sales must be complete by the start of April to avoid the increase of fees.

AMPMni are at the forefront of the ‘Buy To Let’ market in East Belfast and have numerous investors, actively looking purchase investment properties now.

If you would like to discuss placing your property on the market to benefit from this short term boast to the property market, please call our sales team on 02890673777 or email info@ampmni.com.

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SALES - LETTINGS - MANAGEMENT

SALES - LETTINGS - MANAGEMENT

E S TAT E

A G EN TS

t ea r g a k c o l n u deal

SOLD on local expertise for SALES call us on..

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KISSY CUP Instructions

d Materials / equipment require cup Plastic disposable Scalpel knife of coloured paper Random wee bits

1

Make a hole for the spatula in the base of the cup by carefully using the scalpel knife to make a slice. Use scissors to cut the slice larger so the spatula slides in and out easily.

2

Make pop up character that will be attached to the top of the spatula.

Use paper, card, markers and glue for this. Ensure your character is the right size to fit inside the cup.

3

Attach character to one end of your spatula using double sided sticky tape.

4

Decorate the spatula using the markers.

5

Fancy up the outside of the plastic cup using markers and coloured paper. Stick the paper to the cup using double sided sticky tape.

6

Insert the spatula into the slice in the cup so your character is inside the cup.

7

Pop your new friend in and out until you’re popped out.

and card Wooden spatula rs Permanent marke

ed sticky tape

Double sided padd Scissors Sticky tape Pencil Glue stick

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Doodlebugs Creative workshops can come to you. Check us out while you put on a brew: www.doodlebugsworkshops.co.uk

House prices in Northern Ireland rose by a further 4.6% in 2015!

(Office for National Statistics)

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