Hey guys,

I hope you are all doing well! Today’s post is a very exciting one! (Well I think it is anyway haha). This summer I went on safari in Africa it was truly incredible and so I thought why not share it with you guys on my blog.


Just to warn you this may be a long post as I have so much to tell you all so you might want to sit down relax and grab a cuppa.

So let’s just jump right into it. I went away for around 10 days and stayed mainly in South Africa and from here we travelled to different locations. On the trip I experienced a complete range of things all which were once in a lifetime experiences for me and I will never forget.

What did I actually do on the trip? Well on the first day we caught a flight from Heathrow to Johannesburg which was very long! It was an overnight flight though so it meant I could sleep, and for someone who does’nt fly well the 11 hour plus flight was considerably okay. There was nice food and even though it was quiet cramped I managed to get some sleep. (Well I had to as our movie screen didn’t work haha). From here we flew to Zimbabwe which was our first stop on the trip.

As soon as we exited from the airport we were greeted by people singing and dancing in traditional outfits to welcome us. From there I knew how amazing my visit was going to be. We were then driven to our lodge and our driver told us all about the history of Zimbabwe which was actually so interesting!

Once we had arrived at our lodge we got our selves all settled in an unpacked. The lodge we stayed at was particularly nice I have to say. Around half an hour later we when then picked up and driven to the helicopter strip. It was time for our first activity. A helicopter ride over Victoria Falls! What an amazing activity to start on. So we arrived and got on the helicopter. I had never been on a helicopter before so it was even more special. We rode right over Victoria Falls which was beyond amazing. From above you could really get into perspective how big and incredible the falls really are as well as getting a glimpse of what Africa is really like. Once the helicopter ride was over we were driven back to our lodge and we chilled for a bit before having ribs for dinner at the lodge which I must say were so delicious!


Then it after good nights sleep it was day two of our adventures in Zimbabwe. We had to be up super early as we were being picked up at around 6am. Luckily the time difference in South Africa was only an hour different to the UK so it was too much of an adjustment. Once we were picked up we were driven to a local elephant home where elephants in danger or need had been rescued. This was where we got to go on an elephant ride. It was one of the most amazing things I have ever done. We really got to bond with the elephants and riding through the African bush on them passing giraffe and the incredible landscapes was just perfect. Once our ride had finished we had the opportunity to feed the elephants and we were given a full English breakfast afterwards were we got to meet lots of other people also travelling through Africa from all different areas of the world.


We then were driven back to our lodge where we had a quick change of clothing as the temperature really changes in Africa from very cold mornings to extremely hot afternoons. After our change we got a taxi to the Vic Falls Park and here we had the opportunity to walk around Victoria Falls extremely close and see how amazing the falls were. As we were very close to the falls it did mean you got a little bit wet from the spray of the water however with such a hot temperature this was a perfect refreshing feeling whilst wandering around.


Once we were done walking around the park we went to the lookout café were we got our milkshakes and sat on in the café which was literally built of the edge of the falls, and had the most breathtaking view, shortly after we took a stroll to the very famous Vic Falls Hotel. It was very grand and had an incredible interior and architectural design.



After a reasonably long day we took a taxi back to our lodge where we had a delicious chicken casserole for dinner before retreating to bed.

By the next morning we were now on day 3 of our trip. It was time to move on to another part of Africa. We had packed in the morning and then chilled by the pool until our transport arrived to take us to Chobe. On our way to Chobe we had to pass through a couple of borders and we even passed elephants in the African Bush.

Upon arrival at our new lodge in Chobe we were welcomed with drinks and food, followed by being shown to our rooms. Once we had unpacked a few bits we were met at the dining area of the lodge for high tea. This was where I tried carrot cake for the first time and I fell in love with it!

The evening was approaching by now and it was time for my first ever safari trip. We were greeted by our guide Joel who I must say was very very good. Now I don’t even know where to begin or how to explain with giving it the justice it deserves how amazing this safari trip was! We saw huge huge numbers of elephants, giraffes, zebras, deer, birds but most incredible of all we saw a pack of 13 lions with baby cubs and even better they were sitting right in front of the sunset. It was one of those moments when you really appreciate how beautiful our world is and the amazing creations within it.

Once seeing the most incredible animals and landscapes and feeling completely amazed we headed back to our lodge for a very tasty chicken dinner.


Day 3 was now over it was time for bed.

Rise and Shine it was now our second day in Chobe and Day 4 of our trip. We had our breakfast and headed straight of bright and early for the safari.

We started of driving through the bush on the jeep; we saw a heard of buffalo, elephants, giraffe and all kinds of animals. We then had a little stop where we could wander along by the Chobe River for a little break before continuing on our safari. At around 1pm we stopped of at little café and from here we got on a boat where we had our lunch whist cruising down the Chobe river where we saw Hippos, crocodiles and even saw elephants crossing the river right in front of our boat.





After our river cruise we hopped back onto the jeep to continue our safari through the Chobe bush. In the evening part of our safari not only were we able to see more amazing animals but we also got to witness the amazing sunset again in such amazing clear skies where you could see thousands of sparkling stars.


It had now come to the end of the day so we headed back to our lodge and had some very yummy pork for our dinner and then went to sleep.

Day 5 had already come around and it was our last morning in Chobe. We decided to do something a little bit different before we left with the other people who were also on the safari with us at Chobe.
We actually went for a village tour. This was very eye opening, It is very hard to put into words the feelings I had when visiting the village but I don’t think you ever really comprehend how little people have compared to you. With only houses made out of twigs and in some cases mud it really did hit home. The people at the village were extremely welcoming. One of the elderly members of the village showed us some of her weaving she had made with different types of grasses. She was very talented. Also at the village we amazingly got to see a wedding taking place where we were extremely welcomed which was lovely.


But by now it was time for us to move on so we were picked up and driven to the local airstrip. This was where we had to fly to our next location in a very small plane.

Now as I previously mentioned I am not the best flyer. Now this is not because I am scared however I get extreme motion/travel sickness and to put it nicely I really was not a fan of these small planes as on a very short flight to the next location I filled up over 4 sick bags, not very pleasant.


Never the less we had arrived at our next location, Moremi Crossing! From the airstrip we had to take a boat to our tent where we would be staying. There was an evening boat ride after this also however I had to sit it out due to still being very ill and therefore had a much needed sleep until dinner time.
After dinner on our way back to our tents we had to be escorted as there was an elephant right outside my tent!

Let’s just say I didn’t get any sleep this night. Everything was a lot noisier because we were in a tent there were frogs, baboons, birds and all sorts. Our tent was just in front of a river so we also had extremely loud hippos. But worst of all, this elephant. It literally stayed outside our tent the whole night. I mean it was quiet incredible really. However reasonably scary at times when I thought it was going to knock our tent down with the tree it pulled over less than half a metre away from us!

When the morning came it was time for our first full day at Moremi crossing. Before leaving the tent the elephant had to be moved as it tried to charge as we tried to leave our tent. It was an experience to say the least.

Once having our breakfast we went on a mocoro down stream to the bush where I went on my first ever walking safari. We had to follow strict instructions but it was pretty amazing to walk through the African bush where giraffe and baboons and deer casually walked past us. After our morning walk was done we took a mocoro ride back to our camp.


This was followed by lunch and a siesta. After this we took a boat ride down the Okavango Delta and saws elephants splashing in the water and huge pods of hippos as the sun set and we sipped on our drinks and enjoyed our snacks.


Once we arrived back at camp we were welcomed by a singing and dancing spectacular which was so lovely and we were danced to our tables ready for dinner.

Day 6 had already now come around after a better night’s sleep although still very noisy. It was now time again for us to move on to go to our next destination. We had are breakfast and was taken to the airstrip. (yes another small plane oh no). I won’t go into details but I wasn’t too keen on that flight either however with only a fifteen minute journey I survived (kind of) haha.

We were now at Kwai. We was met at the airstrip by our guide Dennis who was very very nice. He drove us to our camp and we were welcomed by singing, dancing and drinks and shortly after taken to our tents where we got to unpack and unwind before lunch. (we had pasta by the way) which oh my was the most amazing thing after not having it for 8 days. It was then siesta time so we went to this thing called ‘the lookout’ which was a bit like a tree house and we got to watch the elephants and deer. I also had a little sleep after the very early mornings and late starts where starting to catch up with me.


It was by now time for high tea. After some very yummy chocolate cake and refreshing lemon water I was all ready for our next safari. This next safari was another truly incredible experience we saw lots and lots of animals and best of all a leopard who was extremely close to us!


Once being mesmerised by yet more beauty from Africa we headed back to camp for dinner. After our dinner we then went a completely different experience. A night safari, it was pitched black and soo peaceful we got to see some night animals and see what it is like at all kind of hours in the African bush.  After getting back late we then went straight to bed.

We were still up early the next morning though ready for breakfast around the fire.

Next up after breakfast was another safari! But they never get boring. Each time you enter the bush there is always something different happening, truly incredible really. This time we got up close to cheetahs and lions as well as hippos, the leopard, elephants and many other amazing creatures.


After the morning safari we headed back to camp for lunch and siesta. After a nice time of relaxing we went for a morocco ride down the Okavango delta. This was another magical experience, hippos, elephants, birds and a beautiful sunset made it another perfect evening.


Then we went back to camp just in time for dinner. This was another amazing moment. My birthday was a couple of days after leaving the camp and so the staff put on a really special performance for me and even made a delicious birthday cake. I will treasure the memories of it forever.

After another night’s sleep it was our last day of activities in Africa. We had our breakfast and went straight off for our morning safari. We saw wild dogs! But not just any wild dogs we saw a whole pack of babies all playing around their den, so cute and a great way to end our safari experience!


It had now come to the end of our journey and we were driven to our airstrip. We had to get on another small plane. (Yikes) and after that we had to take a normal size plane from Maun to Johannesburg. Which I was still ill on despite it being bigger!


Anyway once we arrived in Johannesburg we got some food and did a spot of shopping before getting our extremely long flight back home. Luckily our movie screens worked on this plane and we had a safe journey home.

I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences in my life and it truly made me appreciate the great wonders of our world.

I hope you guys enjoyed reading all about my trip; it was a bit long I know but I had so many things I wanted to share!

Thank you very much!


Jodie x 

Heya!

I hope you are doing good. Today I am back with an outfit post. 

The outfit which I am loving at the moment is very brown based. I am particularly loving brown combinations with muted pinks. I feel like the combination creates a very sophisticated look and its something which I have been seeing a lot in stores recently. Anyway lets get onto the details of the outfit.


The top is actually from Next. It is a knitwear item with short sleeves. I love this because it keeps you warm but you don't get over heated as it is short sleeved. I particularly like the neck on this item as it is a round high neck but is not high like a turtle neck so again you don't get too hot in it yet you still feel super comfortable wearing it. I personally love the colour scheme of the stripes. The injection of colour ensures the top is not dull and makes it a statement piece yet with the muted tones it is not in your face and is a piece you can wear over and over again. 

I paired my top with an a-line faux suede skirt. The skirt has a zip running down the whole of the skirt and has two large pockets at the front. This skirt was actually from Primark. It is a perfect length it falls just above the knee and is not too short. The zip has gold detailing which I think suits the brown colour really well. It is super comfy to wear and a very lightweight fabric so is not too hot. I personally also think the brown in the skirt compliments my next top very well. 

I chose to wear opaque black tights with my skirt as I feel super comfortable in them and I think they give a professional look. I like to get my tights from BHS or M&S as I personally think they last a really long time and they very rarely ladder when I purchase them from there. 

To accessorize and for practicality I put a small brown shoulder bag with my outfit. This has a pretty embossed pattern in it and has a popper style fastening. This was also from Primark. It also has gold detailing so matches the skirt really well. I love this bag for weekend use as it is not too big yet fits in all my necessities. 

Also to accessorize I  used a metere of brown suede cord as a chocker style necklace. I picked this up from my local haberdashery for 40p. I think this really tied the outfit together (excuse the pun). it created a more fashion thought out look and complimented the suede style skirt as well as making sure my neck didn't look too plain. 

I also wore my gold casio watch to add a bit of a retro vibe to the look and to compliment the gold detailing within the outfit. In addition my gold statement earnings added to this. 

Along side this I wore my brown tortoiseshell glasses. The brown in these pulled the outfit together and the style of the glasses emphasized a vintage style look. 

Finally I wore a pink and brown combination on my lips. I used a brown lip liner which I blended with a light pink lipstick to create a mixture of a muted pink and brown colour. 


I hope you enjoyed reading about one of my current favourite outfits. Thanks for the support. See you again soon. 

Jodie x 








Heya, 

I would firstly like to say I am super sorry that there was no post yesterday and it is going up today instead, however I was in London and got back very late so I didn't really think it was the best time to upload, however I am here today with my weekly post and I hope you enjoy!

So, I hope you are all doing well! Today's post is about my visit to the New Designers Exhibition. 

For those of you who don't know the New Designers show is an exhibit were selected graduates from the year are picked to display their work. At the New Designers show there are opportunities to network with people, job opportunities, and competitions are held. It is a great platform for new designers to get their name known. 

I went to new designers as I find looking at all the work so exciting and very inspiring. I particularly think in new graduates work you can see fresh, new, innovative ideas. 


The New Designers show is held at the Business Design Centre in Islington (a short walk away from Angel the tube station in London).

The location its self Is actually very beautiful. 


At the New Designers exhibition there are different day which focus on different specialty areas. I went on the day which had a huge focus on textiles. A lot of this involved fashion and also some home-ware. 

Within the textiles and fashion work there was also more specialized areas which included things such as knitwear and digital print. 

One of the first pieces I came across went entering is shown in the picture below. This piece was a knitwear focused piece. I really liked the combination of pastel tones. I was also really interested by how the knit created different textures in the garment. 

The first stand I looked at was Loughborough university. I was very impressed by the standard of work and especially the presentation from here. 


The work at the New Designers Exhibition was divided to into sections. In these sections were different university's stands and then their graduates work. 

Below shown is the University of creatives arts based in Rochester. I really liked their stand. The creations were very bold and innovative and I was really interested by the use of print. The cuts of the garments were also very different and eye catching. 



The next stand which I of course loved was Falmouth's. This stand showed the process of students work as well as their final outcomes. There was also a few award winners from the Uni. One of the things I particularly liked about the Falmouth stand was that each students work was different, individual and unique to them. Even though I loved all of the work at New Designers some of the work form the same Uni had one set image to the work which is not a bad thing , however I liked that I could see each students personality in the work of the Falmouth students. 



Nottingham Trent was another University which had a really great stand. Visually this one really created an impact. There was a huge focus on the cuts and shapes of the garments here which really interested me. There was also a really wide use of different materials and strange combinations which actually worked really well together. 


I really enjoyed the New Designers Show and I hope you also enjoyed hearing a little bit about it. I will be back very soon for another post. Thank you so much for having a read.

Jodie x 











Hey guys,

I am back today with another blog post and it will be slightly different today than some of my other style of posts.

So as you may know from one of my previous blog posts I have been working with FSL which stands for Fashion Show LIVE Academy. 

FSL offer a training style program to raise confidence and self esteem in people. This is done through fashion, modelling, workshops, coaching and several other things.

Now in today's post I am going to be focusing on a story from someone who will be taking part in FSL this year.

This person is Jade. I met Jade at one of my meetings with FSL, I was able to talk to her about her situation and how FSL is going to impact her. Along with the founder of FSL (Adina) and Jade we had a little Q and A session about where she is at and what she is looking for from the course. Which I will get into a little later.


Before I get any further I thought I would tell you a little bit about Jade first.  

Jade is a young mum but also a single parent. She is going on the FSL course to boost her confidence and to take the time to focus on herself which is of course vital. A happy mum means a happy child. She is being sponsored by Luton community housing to go on the course and hopes to improve her self esteem from the program as well as being open to many opportunities for her at the end of the course which wouldn't have been offered to her before.

I was personally very inspired by Jades story. She is striving for the best for her and her daughter and taking the opportunities provided through FSL to make this happen. This also would not have been possible with out the sponsorship from Luton Community Housing. 

Now I thought I would share with you some of the things which we discussed in our Q and A so that you can all find out a little bit more about Jade and her story with FSL and Luton Community Housing.

Q- So Jade tell us a bit about yourself?

A- Well I am a young mum, I am 20 years old and at the moment I am not studying but I hope to be in September/October time.

Q- What will you be studying?

A- Child and family studies for three years.

Q- So are you a single mum?

A- Yes I am.

Q- How are you finding that?

A- It can be stressful at times but it is also enjoyable.

Q-Okay so how do you think FSL would benefit you?

A- I recon my confidence would be built higher and my self esteem, I will be able to carry myself better and for example I could walk into a room like ‘I am here’ instead of just being a background person. I will have the confidence to socialize with other people.

Q- So do you also mean to be able to make new connections networks and friends?

A- Yes a different environment for me which I haven't been in before which will be new and exciting.

Q- Do you have a big close circle of friends?

A- Yes but being a mum I don't get to see them.

Q- So FSL will also offer you that social benefit?

A- Yes.

Q- Once FSL has ended and you have been down that catwalk how do you think you will feel?

A- I think I will feel really proud of myself and like I have actually achieved something.

Q- How do you feel about it being AQA accredited?

A- Yes I will get a certificate and a portfolio with that which would be great for my CV and if I went for an interview I could could bring my portfolio with me and they could know the different aspects of what it is I have done.

Q- Yes and are you not with the dad of your child?

A- No.

Q- So you are looking after the baby on your own?

A- Yes.

Q- Do you have any support?

A- Yeah my family support me.

Q- With your housing you are in temporary accommodation currently aren't you?
And will you be getting a more permanent place?

A- Yes at the moment I am in temporary accommodation and hopefully by the end of July.

Q-  Is that with Luton community housing?

A- Yes.

Q- How do you feel about them as a support network?

A- They are really helping me, I would have become stuck but they have supported me really well.

Q- So how did you get in touch with them and where were you living at the time?

A- I got in touch through the council I rang up and they passed my on to the hostel organisation and at the time I was at my grandmas, I couldn't live at home.

Q- So you lived with your grandma because you couldn't live at home, and why then did you have to move from your grandmas?

A- Other family members had moved in and it was too overcrowded.

Q- So how are you finding living at the hostel?

A- It's alright I've had the chance to meet new young mums like me.

Q- So what is it like there do you share rooms?

A- We have our own room but we share living space, bathrooms and kitchen.

Q- Was your baby born when you moved into the hostel?

A- Yeah already about 6 months.

Q- So have you got a key worker with LCH? And what is the relationship with them like?

A- Yes I have, I can speak to her and call her if I need to if I need support or advice or even if I am low.

Q- What do you get low about?

A- If my daughter is having a bad day it can be stressful as the demand is always on me and having to constantly meet her needs.

Q- FSL will be able to give you’re the break that you need to focus on yourself, and what is it about the course you are most looking forward too?

A- I am excited to put myself out there and do something to make something of myself.

Q- What would you say your confidence levels are like now?

A- I would say around a five some days and after FSL I hope for that to be a constant 10.

To me it is really clear how FSL will help Jade. Hopefully by the end of this course she will not only have gained an AQA credited certificate and portfolio but she will also have been able to take a break, focus on herself as well as meeting new people and being able to actually socialize with them. On top of this by the end of the program her confidence will have grown and she will feel as though she has made an achievement not only within her life but also within her self. This opportunity for Jade wouldn't also have been possible within the sponsorship from Luton Community Housing. 

I hope you have all enjoyed having a read of today's post and finding out a little bit more about FSL and Jades 
story with them and LCH. I will leave the links below to both my social media and FSL. Thanks for reading! 

Jodie x 






My personal Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/isthatjodie/


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