Folkestone Frolics: Tutuing Through the Coast! (Post #135)
Hello my darling darlings! It’s your favourite tutu-wearing traveller Emma here, and today I’m waltzing in from the windy Kent coast, ready to share a tale of seaside wonder, feathered friends, and a pink tutu fit for a fairy!
As you know, I'm a creature of habit. I love the predictability of my ballet class routine. The comforting stretch of my warm-up, the satisfying crackle of a well-executed grand jeté. But sometimes, the call of the wild, or at least the call of a vintage steam train chugging through the Derbyshire countryside, pulls me away. This week, I traded the stage for the sea, and my trusty pair of pointe shoes for a whimsical new tutu creation that could have stepped right out of a Midsummer Night's Dream!
I love train journeys! There's something magical about the rhythm of the tracks and the gentle sway of the carriage. It's the perfect opportunity for a spot of reading, catching up on emails, and of course, enjoying a delicious afternoon tea! I was fortunate to catch the scenic route along the coast, which meant panoramic views of the shimmering blue waters and quaint seaside towns. My eyes, ever-searching for beauty, were captivated by the kaleidoscopic colours of the cliffs and the delicate hues of the beach pebbles. The world outside seemed to be moving to a different beat, a slower, more leisurely waltz than my usual fast-paced city life.
Arriving in Folkestone was like stepping into a postcard. It's a place where pastel colours blend seamlessly with the coastline, a tapestry of quaint little shops, quaint Victorian buildings, and a charming, almost forgotten air of seaside charm. There was a palpable excitement in the air - the crispness of the sea air, the energy of the seagulls circling above, and the quiet anticipation of what my adventures might bring.
I was, of course, already dreaming up a tutu that would reflect this charming seaside haven. And let me tell you, my little lovelies, the pink tutu I created was quite something!
Imagine, if you will, the colour of a sunrise over the sea - that vibrant, soft pink. That was the canvas for my creation. A cloud of delicate tulle cascaded down, almost mimicking the waves themselves. I wanted to bring in the vibrancy of the sea, so I added delicate layers of shimmering blue tulle, the shade of a deep, calm sea. Then, a touch of playful mischief! I sprinkled a few feather boas, like those sweet seabirds dancing on the wind, creating a delightful asymmetry that brought in a touch of wild beauty. I paired it with a little white silk top, as fresh and breezy as the seaside air.
Honestly, this outfit was more than just clothes - it was an embodiment of Folkestone itself. With my tutu-wearing swagger, I explored every corner of this lovely town!
My first stop, naturally, was a delightful vintage shop called "The Little Mermaid," filled with treasures from the past. Among the antique porcelain dolls and faded lace shawls, I found a delicate antique butterfly brooch - a perfect embellishment for my whimsical sea-inspired tutu.
I continued on, letting the sea breeze guide me through cobblestone streets. The gentle hum of the waves, the laughter of children playing, the scent of salty air - it was a symphony of sights and sounds, captivating all my senses.
My journey led me to a hidden cove, a secret sanctuary tucked away from the bustling promenade. There, on a clifftop overlooking the wild and beautiful North Sea, I stood and breathed in the salty air, feeling utterly alive and free. The sun, warm on my face, kissed my pink tutu with a gentle glow.
In the afternoon, a sudden downpour forced me to take shelter in a quaint little tea shop. As I sipped on a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea, my eyes were drawn to a flock of brightly coloured parakeets - a sight you don’t often see in the heart of Britain! Their emerald plumage and piercing blue eyes brought a splash of vibrant life to the cozy, rain-soaked street scene.
And yes, of course, I've documented the whole experience for your viewing pleasure, my darlings! The photo album is bursting with the essence of this charming seaside escape - the sun-kissed cliffs, the pastel-colored cottages, my magnificent sea-inspired tutu.
For a touch of whimsy, I took a couple of pictures by a little stall selling brightly-coloured kites - my own little tribute to the playful spirits soaring over the coastline.
Of course, no trip is complete without a dance session. So, with the permission of a lovely local café owner, I spun and pirouetted on the beach. The sea breeze whipping my tulle, the sand underfoot, and a feeling of sheer freedom. You know, that’s the beauty of being a tutu-wearing traveller - a dance studio is anywhere I want it to be!
Leaving Folkestone felt bittersweet. I took a deep breath of fresh air, savoring the salty tang on my tongue. I vowed to come back soon. Maybe for a full week next time! I left a piece of my pink-tutu-wearing heart behind, nestled among the memories of playful seabirds, pastel cottages, and a vibrant beach ballet.
Folkestone, you’ve stolen a little part of my soul, but rest assured, I’ll be back soon to share more seaside adventures with you all.
Until next time, darling darlings! And remember, the only thing more fabulous than a pink tutu? It’s wearing it with confidence and grace!