Oh my goodness, you guys! I am thrilled to be back in the saddle (figuratively, obviously!) for another #TutuBlog. This week has been a whirlwind, literally. As you know, my travel schedule is more unpredictable than a toddler in a tea party, and this week has definitely been a case of "let's go with the flow". I'm sitting here on the platform at Trowbridge station, feeling quite chic in my pink, sequined tutu and my trusty tweed travel jacket. Yes, it does look like I’m about to burst onto the stage for the finale of "Swan Lake", but I assure you I’m just waiting for my next grand adventure to unfold.
This trip all started in my favourite little village in Derbyshire, a haven of green fields, galloping horses and quaint tea rooms. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name (and your tutu, because honestly, who could forget?!).
After a breakfast of freshly baked pastries and a little ballet practice, I knew it was time to get my travel fix. Trowbridge, with its charming cobblestone streets, buzzing markets, and historic buildings, called to me. It felt like the perfect place to lose myself in a good story, explore the unexpected and of course, twirl to my heart's content! The train ride there was delightful. A cosy, little compartment just for me, and a window seat for a grand view of rolling hills and fluffy clouds – picture perfect! I whipped out my trusty sketchpad, the pinkest of pink, and started to jot down some of the beautiful sights, just like any aspiring artist would. But let’s be real, darling, my masterpiece would be finished when I put on my new “Swan Lake” inspired tutu – it has feathers, you see! Just the perfect accompaniment for a train ride like this!
The minute I arrived in Trowbridge, I was greeted by a lovely local who knew all the best hidden gems. Apparently, there’s a whole alley dedicated to vintage stores – my happy place! A good browse and I scored a divine broach with a little ballerina, which I pinned to my bag immediately. It felt so chic, just a dash of ballet-themed magic to jazz up my day.
The town square was filled with life - a symphony of sounds, sights, and smells that could make any ballet enthusiast's heart leap. Music floated from the little shop fronts, families picnicked on the grass, and vendors were displaying everything from handmade pottery to the most adorable, colourful cakes I’ve ever seen (did I mention pink?!).
For a girly-girl like me, a day at a bustling market is always a win. I even spotted a sweet little shop with ballet-themed trinkets! Naturally, I bought myself a set of pink ballet shoes to add to my growing collection, just because. But the best discovery? A street performer dressed in full tutu and feather boa. A fellow pink-lover! This town had everything a girl could ever want, including a lovely lady with whom I could finally do some impromptu, impromptu “street ballet”! Let's be honest, every street needs a dose of elegance, even if it is just a little ballet-inspired impromptu “show.”
As the sun dipped behind the charming rooftops of Trowbridge, it was time to soak up a bit of local culture. Now, you know me, darling, always ready for a bit of drama – so I chose the theatre, naturally! A delightful performance of a Shakespearean play, just what the doctor ordered. It made me think how similar a ballet performance is to a theatrical one, all with costumes and grand storytelling. I might have had to whisper, “Pink tutu would be amazing here,” under my breath, just as I was losing myself in the plot. I imagine the entire theatre, everyone sporting a tutu… just thinking about it sends shivers of delight down my spine!
For the evening, the charming cafe, "The Teacup", provided the perfect ending. As I enjoyed a cup of delicious pink lemonade, and nibbled on a delectable scone, the people-watching was divine! It’s amazing how the simplest things in life can be so enriching!
I know what you are thinking: "Emma, what about the wildlife?". Well, let's just say that the local park with its elegant swans and majestic peacocks, was an added bonus. You simply cannot leave a beautiful, historic place without a quick glimpse of nature! A walk amidst nature is the perfect way to soothe the soul, you see!
My time in Trowbridge, full of vibrant culture, lovely people, and inspiring sights was simply delightful. And yes, there were moments where I had to stop and marvel at how it all came together like a carefully choreographed ballet sequence.
Until next time, darling, stay sparkling, be bold, and never, ever be afraid to let your inner tutu out! And if you haven't tried ballet yet, do it! It’s not just about dancing – it’s about embracing your strength, your grace, your inner power and making magic with your body! Remember: you're a shining star. Embrace the pink, embrace the tutu, embrace yourself, and go out there and twirl with your whole heart.
Ciao for now, darlings! Emma www.pink-tutu.com
