Wednesday 26th June 2019
Hello darling dears!
This is it! Emma here, coming to you live from the Eternal City - Rome, Italy! My heart is aflutter with excitement, a little bit like a hummingbird's wings when it sees a perfectly blooming flower, which is probably what inspired my current outfit, let me tell you. Think pale pink tulle tutu, the puffiest kind, layered over a floral silk blouse and topped with a straw boater hat - picture it! Oh, and my trusty pink glitter ballet pumps, of course! They always add a touch of magic to my travels.
This week's trip to Rome has been fuelled by the beautiful, majestic, and inspiring Roman Theatre that's been captivating audiences since the 2nd Century BCE - did you know that? It's such a powerful symbol of Rome's long and storied history. And who doesn't love a good Roman Empire connection? This trip, funded by a series of enchanting ballet performances at a local Derbyshire theatre, has been a whirlwind of emotions and fashion.
Speaking of fashion, my Rome adventure has led me down many charming cobbled streets, each one showcasing some of the finest Italian design - from classic, timeless leather goods, to modern, playful boutiques selling handmade scarves. I even managed to snag myself a vintage silk scarf, its print a kaleidoscope of reds, greens and yellows - it will be the perfect addition to my tutu collection.
We landed in Rome last Saturday, with the early morning sunlight shimmering on the cobblestones, creating a mosaic of golden light and shadows. Our little haven for the week is a gorgeous B&B tucked away in a quiet alleyway in the heart of the city. You can practically hear the whispers of Roman history echoing from the cobbled streets. My room overlooks a beautiful courtyard with a lemon tree and a fountain. It's so utterly romantic! I've already fallen in love with Rome's laid-back atmosphere, especially the way people take their time, sip on espressos, and relish their leisurely lunches. It's so different from the fast-paced life back home in Derbyshire.
This week's adventures have taken us to the Pantheon, which stood before me, an ancient monument bathed in warm sunshine. Its immense grandeur made my heart soar! Every stone and arch seemed to tell a story - one that resonated deep within my soul. Imagine a structure that has witnessed the ebb and flow of time for over two thousand years!
Rome truly is a feast for the eyes - every corner a surprise, every statue a hidden treasure. The Roman Forum, a relic of a once powerful empire, has inspired my creative side, leading me to compose a small ballet sequence which I can't wait to share with you! You'll have to stay tuned for that!
We even found ourselves immersed in the vibrant Trastevere district, where the streets were a symphony of music, laughter, and delicious aromas from every cafe and restaurant. We indulged in fresh, locally grown fruit, sampled the sweetest gelato I've ever tasted (strawberry and hazelnut, yum!), and listened to lively street musicians - my camera had a field day!
Of course, no trip to Rome is complete without experiencing the Colosseum. This awe-inspiring arena, once the heart of gladiatorial combat, now stands as a monument to the city's past glory. It felt strange yet strangely empowering to imagine the crowds, the roar of the lions, the drama, all unfolding within its ancient walls. It truly is an experience that transcends time and place.
The thing I love most about travelling is the unexpected - that little piece of magic that sprinkles every adventure. Today, after a delightful lunch at a trattoria nestled beneath a blooming fig tree, I discovered a tiny, quaint bookshop overflowing with vintage ballet books, beautifully bound and smelling of old paper and dreams. It's become a secret treasure, filled with stories waiting to be unfurled.
The sun is starting to set, painting the sky in hues of fiery orange and golden yellow, and the air is thick with the aroma of freshly baked bread. It's a truly magical atmosphere, perfect for reminiscing on all the beautiful moments of this incredible week.
But Rome isn't just about grand monuments and bustling piazzas. It's also about those smaller, quieter moments. A walk along the Tiber at dusk, listening to the gentle murmur of the river as it flows past ancient bridges. A warm conversation over steaming mugs of cappuccino in a quaint café, shared with locals whose smiles shine as brightly as the midday sun. It's these everyday moments that capture the essence of this magical city and leave you yearning to return.
Rome has certainly woven its magic on my heart and on my creative spirit, and I know it will forever remain a special place in my memories. Until next week, darling dears!
Remember: "The most beautiful things in life are the ones that happen while we are in the process of making plans." - Unknown
Stay pink, stay bright, and most importantly, stay you!
Love,
Emma xxx
