Post Number: 10040
Hello darlings! It's Emma, your favourite pink tutu enthusiast, and I'm so excited to be writing to you from the enchanting town of Ashington, nestled in the heart of Northumberland. Today's adventure was a glorious blend of ballet, nature, and a whole lot of pink, and trust me, it's a story you won't want to miss!
Now, before we dive into the tutu-tastic details, let's talk about getting here. I decided to trade in my trusty little Fiat for a scenic journey aboard the train. The rolling countryside painted a picture of crisp winter hues, and the cozy carriage felt like my own little boudoir with all the fluffy cushions and hot chocolate. Just a touch of romanticism to set the mood for the day's adventures!
As I stepped off the train, the air buzzed with the excitement of a place brimming with life. Ashington, with its charming brick-built houses and the quaint little shops lining its main street, exuded a comforting, homey charm that melted away any lingering London bustle.
My mission was clear: I needed to find the perfect spot for a tutu photo shoot! As I wandered down a cobblestone alleyway, a burst of vibrant colours caught my eye - it was a little vintage shop brimming with pre-loved trinkets and vintage treasures. A perfect setting! With a giddy heart and my signature pink tulle billowing behind me, I grabbed the most whimsical hat they had and, presto, the perfect shot was born.
The owner of the shop, a woman named Mrs. Henderson, was a sweetheart! She even shared with me a fascinating bit of local history. Apparently, Ashington had a thriving coal mining past, and there were rumours of a secret underground ballet school – how fabulous, right?! Unfortunately, the only evidence was an old newspaper clipping in the town's archive. I may have to pay them a visit sometime – who knows what secrets they might hold?
Tutu Talk: The Ashington Ballet Centre
Speaking of secrets, Ashington turned out to be a hidden gem for ballet! I stumbled upon the Ashington Ballet Centre, a place brimming with talent and passion. Their classes were amazing - I even got to try a tap dancing class! I'm definitely not the tap dancing queen, but everyone was so encouraging and it was an absolute riot!
The centre's founder, Miss Harper, was as warm as the crackling fireplace that graced the entrance hall. She confided in me that she started this ballet centre with the dream of bringing the grace of ballet to all corners of this small town, inspiring new generations of dancers to twirl their way into a world of art and expression.
Later, Miss Harper told me about the 'Dance Under the Stars' charity event they'd be holding. It sounded magical – an open-air ballet performance under the Northumberland night sky. Oh, I wish I could have stayed for that! Maybe next time...
A Wild Side
Of course, my adventures couldn't be complete without a little dose of nature. The Northumberland coastline was calling me, so I hopped on the cutest little horse-drawn carriage I've ever seen. Imagine, a gentle, rhythmic rocking motion as the horses pulled us along the windswept path, with the salty tang of the sea in the air! It was straight out of a Jane Austen novel!
I soon found myself standing at the edge of a magnificent cliff overlooking the sea. The crashing waves and the dramatic rock formations painted an awe-inspiring picture of nature's raw power and beauty. And let's not forget, my beloved pink tutu made a graceful appearance for a photoshoot, of course. It’s not a true ballet adventure without some picture-perfect memories!
I even met a sweet family of seals basking on a rocky outcrop. I'm convinced one of them winked at me! How adorable is that? It's truly remarkable how such wild creatures can coexist with the small town charm that permeates this enchanting place.
Ashington: The Final Twirl
As the sun dipped low on the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold and orange, I realized my time in Ashington had flown by. It was time to bid farewell to this beautiful corner of Northumberland. But as I boarded my train back to Derbyshire, I knew I'd carry a little piece of this special place within me – a newfound love for the simple pleasures, a bit more bravery to embrace my inner ballerina, and an insatiable yearning to explore more corners of our magical, tutu-tastic world.
Until next time, darlings, may your tutus be fluffy and your days be filled with twirls and smiles!
XOXO
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
