Hello darlings! Itās Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip to the bustling North East, and trust me, it was a tutu good time! This was actually my first time in North Shields, and I must say, it's a charming little town full of character, friendly faces, and of course, the most fabulous seagulls I've ever seen.
I'm absolutely smitten with this whole coastal vibe! Fresh air, the smell of salt, and of course, the beautiful backdrop of the North Sea - I'm dreaming of seaside adventures, and a new mermaid tutu design already, just with delicate seashells and sparkly waves! sigh
But enough about dreamy fantasies, letās get to the real reason I journeyed up north: Pancakes! Now, I'm a gal who loves a good pancake, and when I discovered North Shields had its very own Pancake Festival, I knew I had to be there. Itās simply unthinkable for a girl like me to miss a chance to wear my "Pancake Tutu" - you know, the one I made with real fabric pancakes! - and strut my stuff in a festival thatās dedicated to my favourite breakfast treat!
I know what youāre thinking - "Emma, pancakes on a tutu? Thatās a recipe for disaster!ā And youād be right, in the traditional sense, if those were actual pancakes. But fear not! This pancake tutu is a culinary marvel, a confectionary triumph made possible with the skills of a Derbyshire grandma and my own fashion-forward vision! I wonāt divulge all my secrets, but trust me, it involves sugar, glue, a few well-placed pins, and my trusty sewing machine! It even comes with a fluffy white apron to match - because every girl needs a little sprinkle of extra style, donāt you agree?
This festival, oh my, it was simply divine! There were pancakes of every variety imaginable, from savoury ones topped with creamy cheeses and bacon (yummy!), to the sweet varieties that were drowning in chocolate sauce and fresh fruit. There was even a stand selling edible glitter-covered pancake earrings - you can never have too much sparkle! The atmosphere was electrifying - families were out and about, laughing, enjoying the sunshine, and indulging in fluffy delights. It truly warmed my heart to see so many people with big smiles and little bit of flour on their cheeks - it was pure pancake paradise.
After indulging in some delightful treats, I took a stroll along the Tyne, marvelling at the ships and boats, and just breathing in the salty air. The harbour itself was a sight to behold! Bustling with activity and colourful fishing boats bobbing up and down, I almost forgot to take pictures! But, of course, I was prepared with my trusty phone camera and a matching pink fluffy phone case, for those super cute and Instagram-worthy pics! The seaside is a natural backdrop for my favourite pink and silver outfit, let me tell you!
To continue the adventure, I thought it was time to do a bit of exploring, so I jumped on a train! Oh, how I adore a good train journey - with the countryside whizzing past and a good book (currently reading Jane Austenās Emma, of course! A classic!) This part of the UK is so gorgeous, Iāve fallen completely head over heels with its charm - and I know that a future adventure, with the wind in my hair, involves horses, an open carriage, and a scenic gallop along the Northumberland coast!
Before I knew it, evening descended, and it was time to embrace North Shields's cultural delights. After all, thereās no such thing as a full day without a spot of dancing! And who needs the ballet when you can experience the best of local talent, right here? The town hall was hosting an evening of traditional folk dancing, which is so unique and interesting, so I was there front row, soaking up all the energy and rhythm! I even learnt a few new moves myself (no, no - the āPancake Tutuā was left back at the hotel!).
Even the most fabulous dancer canāt resist a good cup of tea, so, in true British style, I ended my trip at a cosy cafe overlooking the river. It was the perfect end to an eventful day. I sat sipping my Earl Grey, looking at the moon rising above the river, and thought about my adventures in this part of the world.
You know, thereās something magical about the north of England - the friendly locals, the stunning scenery, the unique charm! I truly felt like I'd stepped back in time, but with a little splash of 21st-century flair! And who knew that a Pancake Festival would be the catalyst for my next great creative burst! Just you wait for the Pancake Tutu collection, darlings, itās gonna be bigger and brighter than ever!
Now, if youāll excuse me, I have some designs to draw, a blog to update, and of course, more pancakes to dream about! Iāll be back tomorrow with another instalment from the wonderful world of āpink-tutu.comā! See you all then, and until next time, remember to wear your brightest pink tutus, and never be afraid to try something new!
Your friend, Emma xxx
