Hello my lovely lot, and welcome to another Pink Tutu Adventure! Today's post is a bit special, because I'm actually writing it from the beautiful city of Carlisle! It's my first time in Cumbria and I'm absolutely in love already, even if the weather is a little bit… well…Cumbrian, shall we say. 🌧️
Now, I'm not going to lie, the journey up here was a real adventure! I opted for the classic train ride, because honestly, who doesn't love gazing at the rolling hills and sleepy villages from a window? I think I've finally found the best way to travel: a vintage steam train with a giant pink tutu strategically placed in the luggage rack! It certainly attracted a few curious looks… I mean, how could it not? It's a pink tutu, in a steam train, in the middle of the countryside! Talk about a show-stopper! 💖
After a few hours of delightful train journey shenanigans (which included a very enthusiastic rendition of "Swan Lake" on the platform), I arrived in Carlisle. This quaint city is brimming with history, gorgeous architecture, and even a fabulous theatre. That's right, my little dancing butterflies, I'm on a mission to see some ballet! ✨
Now, before I even set foot in the theatre, I couldn't resist snapping a few photos. My new red tutu (it's divine, honestly!) was practically begging to be seen, and what better backdrop than a cobblestone street and a historic castle? Talk about fairytale vibes! 🏰 The vibrant red colour just popped against the ancient stone walls, and of course, my trusty pink boots completed the look! 👢 I mean, let's be real, can you really be a true Tutu-lover without a pink accessory? Just ask my Instagram followers, they'll tell you! 😅
Once I'd had my fill of picturesque moments (and, let's be honest, a generous helping of the delicious local cake), I made my way to the theatre. As soon as I walked in, the air felt electric. I swear, I could feel the excitement radiating off the other ballet fans – it was intoxicating!
The show itself was breathtaking. "Giselle," a true ballet classic, came alive on the stage. The grace and artistry of the dancers were truly awe-inspiring, and their costumes were just magnificent! I mean, there was just something about those flowing skirts and ethereal tutus… I'm pretty sure I even teared up a bit during the finale. You know, tears of sheer joy and admiration! 😉
Speaking of awe-inspiring things, I did manage to grab a quick bite to eat before the show. It involved fish and chips and an absolutely gargantuan scoop of ice cream, which felt like a necessary indulgence after a long day. And let me tell you, those ice cream flavours were worthy of their own post! Strawberry, rosewater, and something I can only describe as "cloud-like cotton candy". You know, my kind of place. 💖🍦
And the evening wouldn't be complete without a little adventure. Now, if you're in Cumbria and fancy some post-theatre escapades, there's something magical waiting for you. Yes, you heard that right! I am, of course, talking about a spot of wildlife watching. Don't worry, there's nothing remotely scary. We're talking adorable little otters and mischievous red squirrels. 🥰 My favourite, however, was a little owl perched on a tree branch – looking utterly regal and, dare I say, rather majestic in his feathers. 🦉 The little fluffball had absolutely no fear of the bright camera flash, and it even seemed to pose for a picture or two.
With all the wonder Cumbria had to offer, I felt a little pang of sadness as I boarded the train back home. It wasn't all roses though. One particularly bold and brave goose took an inexplicable disliking to me, giving my bag a particularly enthusiastic nip. So, the train home featured me with my luggage nestled beside me like a frightened chihuahua, and a hefty bruise on my hand, but my new, shiny tutu remained unscathed – phew! 😅
One thing that keeps ringing in my head is the gorgeous local lady I spoke with. A Carlisle native who is the biggest fan of 'pink tutus', apparently! The kindest thing happened. She said I inspired her to dust off her long forgotten tutu and embrace the inner ballerina she never let blossom. Her words were pure sunshine and it is with moments like these that my passion for spreading ballet magic knows no bounds.
You guys, this journey has been utterly unforgettable. My adventures are never complete without the magic of a tutu, the warmth of pink, and of course, my little ballet community who've followed every step of my journey.
I hope my blog inspires you to dance, explore and embrace a bit of pink magic. As always, keep your tutus ready, because you never know what exciting adventure is just around the corner!
Lots of love and tutu sprinkles,
Emma 🩰
Don't forget to head over to my website www.pink-tutu.com for even more updates on my daily adventures and be sure to follow my social media journey.
P.S. And hey, who wants to take a ballet class on a mountain top, eh? The adventure never stops! 💪😊
