Post #5018
Hello my darlings! Emma here, reporting live from the sunny, but slightly bonkers, town of Barking. If you're reading this, then you've probably realised by now that my motto is "life's too short for boring tutus!" and this jaunt to Barking definitely confirms that!
You see, I was invited to perform at the Barking Dog and Duck Festival – yes, you read that right, a dog and duck festival! – and it just seemed so utterly bonkers, so very "me", that I couldn't resist. They wanted a ballerina to entertain, imagine that! So, I dusted off my fabulous yellow tutu (the one with the adorable sequined birds on it), packed my signature pink suitcase (one never knows when a pink feather boa might be required, you know?), and headed off on a scenic train ride towards Barking.
Honestly, the countryside was breathtaking! Such luscious green fields and even a little cheeky lamb who tried to lick my finger! Of course, my first stop had to be a charming little cafe for some afternoon tea. Pink teacups, of course! And a scone with jam and clotted cream - because a ballerina has to eat, darling! It’s all about finding the perfect balance, you see.
Once in Barking, I was whisked off to the festival grounds - it was like a wonderland! Imagine a park full of dog walkers, duck owners, bouncy castles, and, dare I say it, actual dancing dogs! Talk about a cultural explosion! The dog show was a delight – I was particularly impressed with the chihuahua dressed as a pirate, absolutely darling! But the real star was a black Labrador named Freddie, who performed a truly breathtaking ballet routine to Tchaikovsky. Let’s just say it gave my pirouette skills a run for their money!
Then it was time for my performance. The audience was, let's just say, diverse! You had little kids in oversized wellies, elderly ladies in floral dresses, and of course, an abundance of dogs with a mix of apprehension and excitement in their eyes. Honestly, the sheer joy on their faces when I twirled my way through my routine was the most incredible reward. And let’s not forget the applause – doggy barks, human cheers, and even a couple of squawks from a nearby duck – the sound was truly enchanting!
Of course, no visit to Barking is complete without a trip to the Thames. I stood on the riverbank, breathing in the crisp, salty air and just admiring the vastness of it all. It felt strangely peaceful, this town with its dogs, ducks, and a ballet-dancing chihuahua. It reminded me of the beauty that exists in even the most unexpected corners of our world.
I also got the chance to chat with a lovely woman called Susan who works at the local dog shelter. She told me some heartwarming stories of how they rehabilitate rescue dogs, training them for life and finding them loving homes. Now, wouldn't you know it, they're even introducing a new initiative - ballet lessons for the pups! It’s called "Paw-lerina" – just the cutest thing!
Oh, and before I forget! This adventure has given me some truly amazing ideas for my next blog series – "Tutu Travel Tales"! It's all about embracing the unexpected, exploring different cultures, and bringing a touch of pink tutu magic wherever I go. And you, my lovelies, are invited to join me on this incredible journey.
So, as the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, I bid farewell to Barking. This wild, whimsical place will forever hold a special place in my heart – it taught me to expect the unexpected, embrace the silly, and wear pink tutus no matter the occasion. Now, off to explore another corner of the world – I hear there's a fantastic donkey race happening near Stonehenge!
Until next time, darling readers! Stay pink, stay sparkly, and never be afraid to step outside the box (or in this case, outside your perfectly pink ballet shoe!).
Love always,
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
