Oh, my darlings, how utterly divine! Today, I'm whisking you away to Stratford-upon-Avon, a town so charming it practically melts your heart like a marshmallow over a bonfire (although, to be honest, that image sounds rather messy... I digress!). I donned my most whimsical fairy tutu - a delicate confection of pale pink tulle and iridescent sequins - perfect for a day of whimsical wanderings.
Now, I've been to Stratford before, of course! Who hasn't? It's practically mandatory for a true ballet devotee, wouldn't you say? It's home to the Royal Shakespeare Company, after all, and I adore a good theatre production. But this time was different. I wanted to feel the magic, the fairy dust, the utter joy of the place. And, oh my, did I ever!
First, we took a lovely old steam train to Stratford. I know, I know, we're in the 21st century and some people prefer their journeys on modern trains (and good for them, it's their prerogative!), but honestly, a steam train? A steam train gives you that sense of time travel, the feeling of gliding back to a bygone era when people truly knew how to appreciate the little things, like the gentle clackety-clack of the train and the scent of coal smoke swirling in the air.
As we rolled into Stratford Station, I was greeted by a vibrant tapestry of colours and textures. The little shops lining the cobbled streets beckoned with their window displays – handmade fudge, antique teacups, and of course, beautiful fabrics. Oh, darling, you wouldn't believe the silk scarves I found! My purse felt lighter, but my heart, oh, my heart swelled with joy.
Naturally, we paid a visit to Shakespeare's Birthplace. The historic building itself is charming, but honestly, it was the atmosphere that stole my heart. The feeling of Shakespeare's spirit in the air, the rustling leaves in the garden – it was absolutely magical.
The afternoon was spent wandering along the Avon River. The sunshine glittered on the water, ducks quacking their greetings, and I swore I saw a tiny fairy flitting through the trees. We stopped for a delightful picnic under the boughs of a willow, surrounded by a chorus of happy birdsong. Now, this is the life, wouldn't you say?
Later, as the sun dipped towards the horizon, we joined the crowds gathering at the theatre for a performance of "Romeo and Juliet." The play was utterly captivating! I won't spoil the ending, of course (don't want to ruin the surprise!), but the drama, the passion, the poetry - I was absolutely swept away.
Afterwards, I slipped into my comfy walking shoes, (sometimes even I find those fairy tutu heels a bit much, though they do go marvelously with my pink silk scarf!), and joined the bustling crowds meandering home. We shared stories with local residents and had a warm, fuzzy feeling in our tummies from all the Stratford magic.
As I sit here writing this, surrounded by the delicate blooms of my rose bushes (I told you I love a little bit of English cottage charm!), I can't help but smile. Stratford-upon-Avon is a place of pure, unadulterated joy. And for a girl who lives for all things whimsical and fabulous, a pink tutu is a perfect companion for a day filled with Shakespeare, sunshine, and pure, joyful moments.
Darling, don't let another week go by without a dash of magic in your life! Get that pink tutu out, put on your favourite lipstick (mine's always a cherry red, naturally), and make a wish! Who knows? You might even spot a little fairy yourself.
Don't forget, my darlings! I post daily over at www.pink-tutu.com. Let's make the world a brighter place, one tutu at a time.
Love, Emma xoxo
