Hello my lovely Tutuettes! It's Emma here, your resident pink-loving, tutu-obsessed, ballet-mad blogger, bringing you all the latest from the world of dance! Today, I'm whisking you all off on a little adventure, right to the heart of… drum roll … Hanwell!
Yes, you heard me right! Not exactly the first destination that springs to mind for a ballet-loving adventurer, is it? But hear me out! Today was about exploring, embracing the unexpected, and (of course) wearing a killer tutu, because let's face it, every day should be a chance to twirl!
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. This trip was inspired by two things: Firstly, I got an amazing offer on train tickets - who doesn't love a bargain? And secondly, a dear friend from my ballet school in Derby is actually training to be a horse rider, and she invited me to join her at the Hanwell Equestrian Centre for a bit of riding and, let's be honest, a lot of giggling!
After my train journey, which, by the way, was absolutely delightful, I reached Hanwell and met my friend Emily. It felt like no time had passed since our last ballet class! We exchanged tales of our lives - she's off to try for the Olympics (don’t worry, she's a real natural on the back of a horse), and I'm still trying to convince everyone in Derbyshire to don a pink tutu and try out some ballet!
As Emily led me to the stables, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the countryside surrounding Hanwell. We truly are spoilt with picturesque views in the UK! The smell of hay and horses filled my senses, reminding me of childhood memories of summer holidays and playful ponies.
Soon, I was astride a magnificent chestnut mare named Ruby. Now, I may have mentioned that my ballerina legs aren't built for horseback riding, but let's just say, Ruby took it in her stride, with an almost magical calmness, guiding my unsteady attempts at equestrian excellence with gentle wisdom.
Emily, however, was a sight to behold. She moved with the grace and fluidity of a seasoned rider, weaving through the fields like a dancer. For a moment, I almost imagined she was in her ballet shoes instead of riding boots!
But back to my tutu adventure… how did this pink fashion icon embrace this rural equestrian escape? I thought it was important to pay homage to my beloved pink by adding a touch of elegance to my equestrian ensemble. You know, a bit of "ballerina chic" amidst the rustic charm. So, I sported my go-to pink headband, perfectly matching the delicate, pastel pink roses in Emily's hair. You just can't have enough pink, you know!
And then, we encountered the unexpected. While we were riding, we came across a delightful little family of rabbits frolicking by the side of the road. Oh, the cutest sight you could ever imagine! Their fluffy ears bouncing, their tiny noses twitching - just pure innocence and joy! I managed to catch a photo (don't worry, it was taken at a safe distance) and will add it to this blog post. It really reminded me that even in the most ordinary of places, you can discover extraordinary beauty.
After a morning of gentle riding and laughter, we headed to the charming little café in the village centre. We savored delicious homemade scones and talked for hours, just like we did in ballet school. It felt as though time stood still.
My heart was full by the end of the day. I realised that this little trip to Hanwell had shown me that magic and adventure can be found in the most unexpected of places. We just need to open our eyes and our hearts to the possibilities that await us, no matter where we are.
Now, don't be afraid to break out of your comfort zone, embrace the adventure, and who knows what you might find! It may even inspire a new dance move for me, so that’s why I'll be heading back to my studio to explore the equine elegance in my choreography, adding some gentle gallops and graceful trot movements into my next ballet class.
See you tomorrow, lovely tutuettes, for more adventures, more ballet and, of course, more pink!
Don't forget to check out www.pink-tutu.com for more stories and pictures. Until next time, keep on twirling! 💖✨
