Post #2476 - 14th April 2003
Hey darlings!
It's Emma here, and guess what? I'm in Ashton! Yes, the charming little town with the bustling market and the most adorable cobbled streets - and today, I'm bringing you along for my little adventure!
I’ve just hopped off the train after a delightful journey - a carriage full of happy chatter, the sun warming my face through the window. Ah, nothing beats train travel, except perhaps riding side-saddle on a fine thoroughbred, but we'll save that story for another day!
Ashton was always a place I've longed to visit, a sort of dream destination for any ballerina-at-heart, especially after reading about its legendary connection to dance. I even heard a whisper that there's a hidden alleyway called "Tutu Lane," where apparently, they sell all sorts of sparkly tutus. Just the thought is enough to set my heart a-flutter!
Speaking of tutus… I have to show you my newest treasure: my Italian tutu. Oh, the colour! A soft, delectable shade of pink, almost the colour of a blooming rose in the springtime. The layers are so delicate and the fabric so fine, I could twirl for hours and never tire! I think I might need to get myself some silk gloves and matching pink ballet shoes, and I’m dying to wear it to see some theatre performances here, I hear they're brilliant.
But enough about my lovely new tutu - let's talk about Ashton! I've barely been here an hour, and already, the town has captured my imagination. It's just so full of character, from the quirky antique shops filled with curious trinkets and antique ballet books to the grand old buildings with their stately columns.
I am utterly besotted with the quaint little tea room I stumbled upon, with its pink gingham tablecloths and charming waitress, dressed in a dress I wouldn't have looked out of place in myself, (the skirt reminded me of my new tutu!). Of course, I ordered a cup of English Breakfast tea, served in a delightful bone china cup, and the most delicious, pink strawberry cake with lashings of clotted cream. Pure decadence!
I spent the afternoon wandering the bustling market square, soaking in the atmosphere, listening to the charming street performers and eyeing up the beautifully displayed fruit and vegetables. Ashton really is the quintessential English market town - a true delight!
Oh, and let's not forget the wildlife! I'm a bit of a nature enthusiast, and the mere sight of a majestic hawk soaring overhead, the glint of its sharp eyes like jewels in the sun, or the cheeky sparrows flitting through the treetops - it's enough to fill me with such a deep sense of joy and peace! It's always such a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us every day, if we only take the time to look.
This afternoon was about more than just exploring Ashton; it was about taking a little time for myself, relishing every moment and experiencing the joy of living fully. I’ve got the most incredible feeling I’m going to fall in love with this place, it has a kind of magic I just haven’t felt elsewhere.
My day in Ashton was certainly one to remember, from the charming cobbled streets to the beautiful countryside, and of course, my oh-so-lovely Italian tutu. As always, darlings, I'm feeling grateful for each and every day, for my life, for the opportunity to dance, and for my little pink tutu. I’m looking forward to sharing more of my adventures in the days ahead, but for now, it’s time to find a peaceful corner and simply appreciate the beauty around me. Remember, it's never too late to fall in love with dance, and it's never too late to find your own special kind of magic.
Love and twirls, Emma
xxx www.pink-tutu.com
