Oh my darlings, hello from Carshalton! I just know you're going to adore this one. The train ride here was pure magic. Imagine, sunshine streaming through the windows, the scent of fresh air whipping through my hair, and the most gorgeous little lamb on a farm, baa-ing at me as we passed by! I swear, I feel like I'm in a fairytale - except with more tutus! 💖
It's a whirlwind tour of London right now. You know me, always on the go! This weekend was all about a wonderful ballet show at the beautiful Sadler's Wells Theatre. Oh, how I adore seeing ballet live! It’s an absolute rush, those powerful movements, the delicate artistry, the feeling of shared joy - I’m truly in my element. Speaking of elements, how about those costumes! Such a dazzling display of creativity! A couple of them had the most divine tulle and lace, my absolute favourites! I wouldn't be surprised if you spot some pink ones too! After all, pink is always my colour of choice - and you can’t have a true ballerina’s life without it, can you? 😉
Yesterday was the big day - the Carshalton debut! I absolutely love the quaint charm of these towns outside London. The moment I stepped out of the train station, a little shop caught my eye, brimming with the most stunning vintage clothing. My fingers were itching to grab everything and drape it in the window like a fairy godmother. Of course, I wasn’t about to do anything that crazy. I'm sure that's considered a wee bit of shoplifting in the modern world - and my dear grandmamma raised me to be a good girl! But that wasn't to stop me from nabbing myself the most delightful red tutu I could find! It was love at first sight. Oh darling, it is a dream! This fabulous find was a complete coincidence, you see. It was just fate whispering to me about my fabulous adventures. My inner ballerina is thrilled - it's the perfect outfit for a whirlwind ballet escapade!
So, you're probably wondering, why Carshalton? Well, this delightful town has a bit of a hidden secret: it's got a real love affair with the arts. I found this wonderful dance studio nestled on a side street. Its windows are draped in a magical haze of light, showcasing the graceful movement of ballerinas practising their leaps and arabesques. It's utterly mesmerizing! A quick chat with the lovely receptionist told me all about their special "Try Ballet Day". Yes, you heard that right, darling! It's an open day for people of all ages to experience the wonder of ballet.
You've probably guessed by now that I couldn't resist giving it a go! A twirl of the red tutu, and I was in the studio. My heart did a little tap-dance, to be honest! All of these lovely ladies in their sleek, elegant dancewear, and then there was me in my big, bright red tutu. The instructor, bless her cotton socks, took it all in stride! A kind smile, a giggle at my enthusiasm - and then, the class began!
From pliés to arabesques to grand jetés, I gave it my all. Oh, it was hard work, but so much fun! I definitely didn't achieve graceful pirouettes right away - it’s an art, my darlings, and it takes time! I swear, I felt like a clumsy goose, with limbs that seemed to have a mind of their own! I felt myself wobbling at times, and giggling out loud! It was honestly the most liberating experience. Let me tell you, I felt utterly in my element, my confidence soaring!
But here's the best part - all of the lovely ladies in the class were so incredibly welcoming! They laughed with me, they encouraged me, and most importantly, they embraced the magic of it all! It was like a little world of kindness and laughter, swirling together with the movement of ballet. It’s so refreshing! To know that ballet isn't just for a select few, but for anyone who feels the call of the dance, the joy of expression.
Oh, I forgot to mention - a beautiful peacock showed up! It came out from behind the studio's ivy-covered wall. I tell you, it was breathtaking, this majestic creature! With its incredible plumage shimmering in the afternoon sun - you'd swear it was out of a fairy tale. You’d never guess it was right there in the heart of Carshalton, would you?
My darling, it felt so surreal to be standing there, red tutu, red lipstick, and all, surrounded by beauty and grace, just moments before watching the enchanting beauty of this majestic peacock strutting its stuff. To be surrounded by nature and artistry. What a treat!
Well, darlings, this was only a small taste of my adventures. But there's so much more to discover. Carshalton has won my heart, it’s the perfect blend of picturesque countryside and cultural charm! I just know there are countless stories waiting to be told, hidden treasures waiting to be found, and plenty of pink tutus just waiting to be twirled in this beautiful town.
Stay tuned, darlings, because the story isn't over yet.
Love,
Emma xx
P.S. Have you seen those incredible horse-drawn carriages? I'm definitely taking a ride in one of those tomorrow, my darlings! I have a hunch it’s going to be the most divine way to discover the hidden corners of Carshalton! Don't forget, pink is my signature colour, and horse drawn carriage ride's and ballet - they just have to go together! 💖🐴🩰
