Hey everyone! It's your girl Emma, back with another blog post straight from the heart of my latest adventure. Today, I'm buzzing with excitement because I've just arrived in Hemel Hempstead, and oh my goodness, this town is absolutely delightful!
I took the train here, of course, because there's just something so charming about the gentle sway of a train journey. I think the romance of railways just adds a little sprinkle of magic to any trip. Maybe I'll sneak in a little pointe work next time – who knows! (don't worry, I'll make sure I'm not blocking any exits first!)
Hemel Hempstead feels so different to my little village back in Derbyshire. It's a bustling little place full of history and, I have to say, it's already got me dreaming about my next visit! I've been exploring all day, and the sunshine has just been divine, it's one of those crisp, sunny June days that just makes everything feel bright and happy. It feels like the whole world is blooming!
Speaking of blooming, have you ever noticed how many flowers there are around in the summer? I know I sound a bit like a grandmother now, but it really is incredible. I swear they are all pink, which naturally means it's the perfect excuse for a pink tutu photo shoot! The Hemel Hempstead rose garden is a must-visit, even if I do say so myself. I've captured some absolutely glorious pictures amongst those blooming roses, just wait until you see them on my Instagram!
Now, what could be better than a beautiful park, you ask? How about a delicious tea and cakes at a charming little cafe called "The Tutu Tea Room"! Talk about a place after my own heart! I can already see the pink polka dot wallpaper and maybe some antique teacups.
I'm a sucker for anything cute and a bit quirky, and I definitely need a bit of me-time to unwind. And there's nothing more relaxing than a lovely cuppa and a good chat with friends (and sometimes even my trusty notebook and pen)!
After a delightful afternoon, I decided to catch a performance at the local theatre, "The Dance House", and boy was I in for a treat! This talented group of dancers have been practicing and it really showed. Their costumes were phenomenal and the energy was electric! The entire production was a breath-taking mix of ballet, contemporary and even some acrobatic elements! The choreographer had clearly gone to great lengths to tell a beautiful story through movement, it was absolutely enthralling. They even included some street dance in their performance, which was super cool. This group clearly aren't just dancers, they are incredible storytellers as well!
Talking of storytelling, how about some tales from the wildlife world? Just before heading back to the railway station, I discovered this amazing wildlife sanctuary called "The Hempstead Wildwoods." Now, who could say no to exploring that? They even have some friendly looking deer roaming about, although, let's be honest, it wouldn't be a proper adventure without a few dramatic photoshoots in the trees. I must confess I even felt the need for a quick, twirling waltz with them in my pink tutu. You’d think they’d be scared by my bright, beautiful colours, but surprisingly they were just fascinated by it!
But that's not all! They have some fascinating birds, hedgehogs, even some cheeky squirrels who decided to join me in my impromptu ballet lesson amongst the foliage (don't tell my instructor!). I swear I even saw a family of rabbits prancing around in perfect unison – maybe we could call it "the rabbit barre"?. Maybe the fairies who live in the woods were practicing a ballet choreography for their annual performance! Or perhaps, I’ve just been indulging in too many pink cakes! Who knows?
Right now I'm heading back to the railway station. All I can think about is getting home and re-living my adventures here on the train, by listening to my favourite ballet music. The carriage will have to wait as I rehearse some of my favorite jumps and turns before I reach the station (shhh! don’t tell anyone). I feel inspired. I'm already planning my next visit here! This little town has so much charm and there's so much to explore!
In fact, I've got another blog post in mind: maybe one about all the inspiring ballet outfits I’ve spotted on this trip. This has already become a great trip for inspiration. Maybe even a special Hemel Hempstead dance class! I wonder if my teacher could make the entire class wear pink tutus just for this occasion? I know what you’re thinking, what will they think?! They will look fabulous! They’re probably all jealous I haven’t brought them to see The Dance House. And yes I've already spotted a wonderful selection of pink tutus in the local shops – you're going to love the ones I pick out!
But now, time to hop on the train back to my home. As usual, I’m going to head off dreaming about the day’s adventure, in a sea of pink, while looking out for any fluffy creatures (horses would be perfect) that can offer a lift for the return trip! Don't forget to check out my Instagram and Facebook page, because the real highlight of my adventures are always my photos!
Love and sparkles,
Emma xx
