Post Number 4074 - 29th August 2007
Hello, my darlings!
Emma here, your very own tutu-clad travel enthusiast, writing to you from the charming town of Rainham in Kent. The sun's trying its best, but there's a little bit of a drizzle in the air, which just adds to the magic of the place, don't you think?
Anyway, let's rewind a bit, shall we? The journey itself was an absolute dream. A train ride, you see, with the most glorious countryside views flitting by the window. Fields of green and gold, dotted with little red barns, with the odd sheep and cow ambling about like they own the place. Absolutely picture perfect! I can't think of anything better than watching the world go by from the comfort of a plush carriage, feeling the wind in my hair, a smile on my face and... a perfectly pink tutu swirling around my legs. I just can't help myself, my darlings, it's in my nature!
Pink Tutus in Rainham? Why Not!
Upon arrival in Rainham, I knew I had to make the most of my time. My inner ballerina just couldn't be contained. My dear friend, Amelia, had suggested we explore the little town and perhaps catch a local ballet class, as she knew of a rather unique, quaint studio. We had the most delightful little lunch, a charming bistro filled with the smell of fresh bread and sunshine (despite the rain outside). We even had a chat with a charming, grey-haired woman who owns the bistro and she shared her story of how she danced as a young girl and we laughed over shared memories of our first steps in a tutu. She's certainly given me a whole new perspective on the town!
A Tutu Discovery!
Then, off we went, a "pink tutu and me" combo on full display (because you simply can't miss a chance to spread the joy, can you?), in search of that ballet studio. I was, shall we say, slightly disoriented by Amelia's direction-giving (who knew London could be so complex!) but that’s what friends are for! Eventually, we found it nestled amongst the independent shops and antique stores, with a quaint little sign boasting, "Ballet & Beyond." The studio was brimming with youthful energy. Young girls, their faces lit with excitement, twirled and stretched, their pink tutus echoing my own passion.
As we walked in, everyone stopped to admire my bright pink tutu, which I purchased last month from a quirky little shop in Derbyshire - "Tutus & Teacups", they call it. We even spotted a fellow pink tutu aficionado (with the most beautiful lilac feathered boa!) who just had to have a picture with us. You know me, always happy to share the pink tutu love!
Dance Floor Delights!
The studio's teacher was lovely, a young man with a twinkling eye and a contagious enthusiasm for the art. He had the most charmingly old-fashioned accent, you wouldn't believe. As the lesson progressed, my inner ballerina woke up. A sense of pure joy. A lightness. A liberation. I can honestly say I haven't felt this happy and energized in ages.
Life in Rainham
Rainham is more than just ballet. It's a little corner of England brimming with hidden gems. After class, we went for a delightful walk in the countryside. It’s hard to explain but everything about it was calming. It felt like time was just slow in this beautiful countryside town, something that’s incredibly rare in Derbyshire, let me tell you! The sheep baa'ing, the wind whistling through the fields. I could almost hear the music from my heart dancing into the air and my feet tapping away, without even knowing. I swear it. We stumbled upon a little cottage with the most exquisite garden, overflowing with roses and lavender. I took some pictures, and the smell is still lingering on my scarf. What a perfect afternoon.
The night concluded with a trip to a quaint pub called The Cricketers Arms. Honestly, the ambiance was just magic, a cosy atmosphere with a roaring fire and a friendly pub dog called Bob (I've decided he needs his own pink tutu!), plus Amelia found a vintage china doll and I think it looks amazing in a pink tutu! Bob is my favourite. It was truly a wonderful way to wrap up the day.
To wear a Pink Tutu or Not To Wear a Pink Tutu, that is the Question!
Rainham, with its friendly faces, hidden secrets, and love for the arts, reminded me of my purpose in life. I love what I do, whether it's twirling through the streets in my pink tutu, exploring the countryside, or simply watching a captivating ballet performance. The world is so full of joy, waiting to be discovered, and it's a feeling that is just so empowering and fulfilling. It fills my heart with sunshine, and inspires me to help others discover this incredible sense of liberation through dance and all things pink.
That's why I say, my dears, "Let your inner ballerina bloom." Embrace the world in all its colourful glory and try to take a class - you might be surprised what you discover! As for my trip to Rainham, it's a reminder that adventures can be found just around the corner, even if they are hidden behind a drizzly afternoon sky. So, embrace every moment, let your pink tutu shine, and dance your heart out! I hope you are all having the best time and you'll pop back to www.pink-tutu.com to chat soon. Until then, au revoir, darlings!
Emma xxx
