Hey lovelies!
It's Emma here, back from another whirlwind adventure, and let me tell you, Strood was a real treat! This little town in Kent, just a stone's throw from Rochester, felt like it stepped straight out of a Jane Austen novel. Think quaint cobblestone streets, adorable tea shops overflowing with pastries, and those quintessential English cottages that you just want to curl up in with a cup of tea and a good book.
But of course, I wouldn't be true to myself if I hadn't injected a touch of pink into my travels. And what better way than with a fabulous pink tutu, darling? It made my little journey a whole lot brighter! Honestly, I can't resist the feeling of a swirling, twirling pink tutu, especially when it's paired with my favourite fluffy cardigan and a cute little tote bag filled with all my essentials: lip gloss, a tiny notebook for scribbling down dance inspiration, and a travel-sized bottle of "Dance Magic" perfume.
Speaking of inspiration, I found a little hidden gem in Strood called The Dance Academy. Can you believe it? I waltzed right in, threw on my pink tutu, and let the music move me! I'm pretty sure I was the only one wearing a tutu, but who cares, right? You have to go where the rhythm takes you, and sometimes that means defying convention and making a little pink statement! It was honestly the most uplifting thing to watch these talented dancers move with grace and fluidity, reminding me of my own ballet roots back in Derbyshire. Even after all these years, ballet always makes my heart sing.
But the adventures didn't stop at the dance academy!
Oh, Strood was just brimming with fascinating history and stunning landscapes. I simply couldn't resist taking a stroll along the Medway River, just mesmerized by the way the water shimmered in the afternoon sun. You know how much I adore rivers, they hold such a calming energy and always remind me of the flow and grace of dance.
To continue with the "nature vibe," I couldn't leave without visiting Rochester Castle. Imagine, a historic castle with incredible views! There's just something about exploring ancient stones that brings history to life, and as I whirled my tutu under the watchful gaze of the castle towers, I felt a connection to generations of dancers and stories. I felt a sense of timelessness, something ballet captures perfectly.
The highlight of my journey had to be the Rochester Cathedral. Oh my, the stained glass windows, the sheer size of the place, the feeling of tranquility - it left me breathless! It's incredible to think about the centuries of stories that echo within these walls, the lives that have been touched by faith and art, the beauty of a shared human experience.
But you know me, I wouldn't leave a place without trying their local delights. And, let's just say Strood didn't disappoint! I discovered this cute little cafe with the most delicious homemade pastries - crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth delicious! I just couldn't resist treating myself. You have to try a "Victoria Sponge" - that creamy filling, the subtle taste of vanilla - absolutely divine! A little treat was just the thing after a day of exploring and twirling.
My journey back to Derbyshire? You guessed it, by train, of course! There's something truly magical about train journeys. You can just relax, enjoy the view, maybe write some of my latest ballet-inspired poetry (yes, I write poems too!) or just drift off into a daydream. Plus, I spotted the cutest little family of squirrels scurrying around on the platform. Honestly, sometimes these little moments are more fulfilling than the big destinations.
The best part of my little trip to Strood? The feeling that no matter where I go, the love of ballet, the passion for pink tutus, the delight in exploring the world and spreading a little bit of dance magic will always be with me. It's not just a hobby, it's a way of life. So, why not join me in this dance? Grab your favourite pink tutu, let your imagination take you on a journey, and embrace the beautiful, quirky side of life. Remember, every adventure starts with a twirl!
Love and pink tutus,
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
