Post #3129
Hello my darlings! It's Emma here, bringing you another dose of pink-tutu fabulousness straight from the heart of the Cotswolds. This week, I've been embracing my inner naturalist, combining my love of twirling with a passion for the great outdoors – and trust me, it was an absolute dream!
Now, you know I'm always up for an adventure, and what better way to escape the city than a train journey? Yes, a proper, old-fashioned train with rumbling carriages and the smell of old leather. This time, my destination was the charming little town of Gloucester, a beautiful spot brimming with history and charm. It also has this wonderful wildlife park that I just had to see. I love animals!
Of course, no trip of mine is complete without a very specific sartorial choice. For my day trip, I went with a delicate blush tutu, the colour of a soft, pink sunrise. It's just a little hint of sparkle that's perfect for embracing the beauty of the outdoors without compromising on that je ne sais quoi. (If you haven’t got a pink tutu, or even one in a lovely earthy shade, get to the shops and grab yourself one!)
The train journey itself was so relaxing! There's something so peaceful about gliding through the countryside, the sun warming your face, the scenery whizzing past... It felt like stepping back in time! You know how much I love a good horse, and this journey just had that feel, without even getting on the back of one. And if I’m honest, I don’t know how many of you have experienced a good railway journey in a vintage carriage, but you’re missing out if you haven’t. I think it should be included as a form of travel on all travel advice!
The Cotswolds, though… those rolling green hills, the quaint stone houses, the scent of wildflowers in the air... it’s utterly captivating! There's something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by nature, don't you think? My spirit just felt lighter and more carefree, just like after a particularly graceful ballet class.
Speaking of graceful, the Gloucester Wildlife Park, my first stop after arriving, was breathtaking. Think rolling meadows dotted with curious creatures – from playful monkeys swinging from the trees to majestic deer grazing in the sun. There was even a cute family of red pandas! Now, don’t get me started on the birds, I just love them. Especially all the amazing plumage. Honestly, you guys, these animals were living the best lives, all chillin' and enjoying the fresh air and the sunshine – total relaxation vibes. They really made me want to pick up some ballet barre work. Not in the middle of the animal enclosures of course! There's nothing quite as enchanting as watching creatures behave naturally. And seeing those majestic creatures, they made me think... could they wear a tutu? If those deer were standing on their hind legs, they’d probably be able to do a relevé, let’s just imagine… (Now this is the part where I have to admit to all the animal rights people who are reading, I just think the idea is funny!)
For my visit, I added an adorable little butterfly motif to my tutu with a few blush pink, crystal-embellished butterflies! I know you're thinking, Emma, butterflies, a wildlife park… what is the connection here? Firstly, butterflies are absolutely lovely creatures with stunning patterns and, in my mind, their life story, with its many transformations, connects them perfectly to my favorite artistic discipline, ballet.
You know what they say about butterflies – change is beautiful. And change, my darlings, is something I fully embrace. Change and progress is in our souls, I reckon. A beautiful little ballet motif, or an addition to your favorite tutu that ties you to nature or the natural world around you can only be good for our inner selves.
I couldn't resist putting on a little show for the birds and butterflies, a few pirouettes here, some arabesques there. Let's just say I felt as graceful as a graceful flamingo.
But for me, my journey was more than just admiring nature. I was captivated by the magic of the little town, and I discovered some of the most charming cafes tucked away in the heart of Gloucester, complete with adorable window seats perfect for a cheeky cuppa. That and the amazing fish and chips they had at the cafe, just to my left when I was enjoying a very hot and very sugary latte… That little bit of a sugar high was all I needed before tackling a delightful shop called ‘The Tutu Shack’ – which I later found out is no relation. It was just pure coincidence! They had an incredible selection of tutus, the pink one in particular stood out… You can’t beat a pink tutu – can you?!
There is so much charm and so much history and beauty to explore in Gloucestershire. Honestly, you just have to get out there and get your travel on! As for my pink tutu – I’ll be keeping this one. A reminder that beauty, grace, and a little sparkle are to be found everywhere!
I hope my blog post has inspired you all to explore the world – one pink tutu at a time! (And let's face it, I am a huge fan of the pink tutu… ) You can check out more of my adventures, stories, tips and pics over at www.pink-tutu.com.
Stay fabulous and stay beautiful!
Lots of love,
Emma xxx
