Hello lovelies! It’s Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip to Kingswood, a charming little town nestled somewhere between Derbyshire hills and the rolling plains of Oxfordshire. Now, you know I’m always up for a bit of an adventure, and this trip certainly didn’t disappoint!
This time, it wasn’t just a ballet journey, it was a ballet fashion journey! As you know, my absolute weakness is a beautifully crafted tutu. I mean, they're simply the quintessential garment, a beacon of grace and twirls. But this time, I decided to pair my trusty tulle friend with a rather spectacular vintage German bodice! Picture it – deep, rich emerald green velvet, exquisitely embroidered with tiny gold beads and delicate swirls. This little beauty had been calling out to me from a dusty antique shop in York and, oh my, it just begged to be danced in.
Our journey to Kingswood began with a delightful train ride. Now, you know I love travelling by train. Something about the rhythmic clickety-clack of wheels on tracks and the glimpses of countryside flying by just sets my imagination alight. And what’s more, it gives me a chance to catch up on my reading and enjoy a good old cuppa!
But let’s not forget the real reason I was in Kingswood – ballet! This trip, it was about experiencing a truly immersive ballet performance. We saw the most captivating street ballet troupe, called "Whimsical Wings." They transformed the cobbled streets of Kingswood into a vibrant stage with their movements and graceful artistry. They even had a little miniature theatre performance nestled amongst the shops, where a mischievous little robin had stolen a pair of shiny silver shoes.
You're probably thinking: Emma, how did you resist buying a million little robin themed souvenirs? Let's just say it was a miracle I got away with only buying a miniature robin sculpture, which I intend to use as a whimsical bookend on my bedside table. The best bit? The sculpture wore tiny little ballet shoes, of course!
But it wasn’t just ballet that stole the show in Kingswood. As a wildlife lover, I couldn't resist taking a stroll through the Kingswood Forest – a magical haven of ancient oaks, playful squirrels, and the gentle chirp of hidden birds. Walking amongst the ancient trees felt like stepping back in time – a perfect reminder of nature’s raw beauty.
It wasn’t all pink tutus and twirls this time, though! One afternoon, I even stumbled upon a truly charming local festival – "The King’swood Fayre." It was a riot of colours, smells and sounds, all beautifully woven into the charm of a quintessential English village festival. It was packed with delightful stalls brimming with local crafts, delectable pastries, and some of the most beautiful floral displays I’ve ever seen. And, as you can guess, I had to get myself a new pink tutu - this time a delicate, floral design, which just begged to be worn around the King's Wood with all its gentle floral hues!
Oh, and did I mention the wonderful pub I stumbled upon in the evening? It was called "The Ploughman's Rest" and, I confess, I lingered longer than I'd planned, enjoying the warmth of the fire and the delectable homemade pies!
My trip to Kingswood was just the perfect mix of urban bustle, rural tranquility and – of course – a dose of that all-important pink tutu magic! Now, back to Derbyshire and back to the grind. But fear not, dear readers! I've already got a million new blog posts brewing – inspired by the wonder of Kingswood.
As always, keep on dancing and twirling! Remember, it’s never too late to find your inner ballerina, and life always looks a bit brighter when you’re wearing a pink tutu.
With love, Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
