Hey, lovelies! Emma here, ready to take you on a whimsical journey through the beautiful (and sometimes blustery) county of Northumberland. Today's adventure takes us to the charming town of Ashington, where pink tutus and fluffy ponies seem to be a perfect match.
You know how much I love a good train ride, and this journey was no exception. The carriage was almost full of students heading to Newcastle's ballet school. There was a real air of anticipation, not unlike what I felt before my own classes! I swear, being in the presence of so many passionate dancers just makes my heart sing.
The trip itself was picture perfect, too. I watched the rolling hills of Northumberland slip past my window, each field a burst of green dotted with playful sheep. Honestly, it reminded me of those dreamy landscapes from childhood story books, you know? The ones with talking animals and faraway castles, except⊠you canât see those castles here.
Speaking of those animals, I did spy a little family of red deer munching on the grass near the station, a scene straight out of my wildlife watching fantasies. You wouldnât believe the graceful way they moved, their antlers shining like gold in the sunshine. If only my pliĂ©s were that elegant!
Ashington itself is a little gem, all brick-built buildings and quaint little shops. I couldn't help but pop into the Ashington Local History Museum. Turns out, Ashington's got quite a story! It was a big coal mining centre, and the museum gives a brilliant insight into that. While I canât deny I felt a bit melancholy reading about the miners, the grit and resilience of the community shone through. It reminded me that true strength isnât always about being elegant â itâs about pulling through, no matter the challenge.
Then, of course, I had to find my favourite part of any town â the bakery. The smell of fresh bread just drew me in, like a magnet! Imagine my joy when I discovered the most delicious pink and white iced cupcakes, looking like mini tutus themselves! My sweet tooth was overjoyed, that's for sure.
But the true reason for my Ashington adventure was the beautiful âNorthern Ballet Schoolâ. This little ballet gem nestled in a quiet corner of the town boasts some amazing teachers, and you wouldnât believe how much talent those young dancers possess! Their passion for ballet, so tangible in the air, is absolutely infectious. They've got a genuine energy that just lights up a room, and watching them practice, you just know some future stars are being made right here.
I stayed for a bit, observing, learning, and reminiscing. I have to say, those younger ballet students reminded me so much of my early days â full of wonder and eagerness. Seeing them reminded me why I dance, why I love tutus, and why pink makes the world just a little bit more sparkly.
Before leaving Ashington, I couldnât help but indulge in a little retail therapy at a delightful shop overflowing with local crafts and charming trinkets. They had a wonderful collection of vintage books, some of them older than my Grandma, I kid you not! Of course, my eye caught a lovely pastel pink shawl adorned with delicate embroidery - perfect for those cool evenings and reminiscent of my own beloved tutus! A purchase was inevitable.
Finally, as the sun began to set and cast long shadows across the town, I bid farewell to Ashington, leaving on a horse-drawn carriage. How utterly magical! It was a gentle journey through the countryside, with the sound of hooves clicking against the cobblestones as my carriage gently swayed. This elegant form of transport felt like it belonged in a Jane Austen novel. You could feel the air shift, become quiet, a stark contrast to the rush of city life I'm used to.
Now, back in the cosy comforts of my Derbyshire home, I find myself inspired. I love that a little town like Ashington can boast a ballet school full of talented young dancers, a thriving heritage museum, a welcoming community, and the quiet magic of a horse-drawn carriage. Itâs all a reminder that there is beauty and wonder in the everyday, that even the smallest places can hold a wealth of hidden treasures.
Don't be afraid to look beyond the surface, and if you feel a little adventurous, grab a pink tutu and embrace the wonder that awaits! I bet thereâs an amazing adventure waiting for you just around the corner, too.
Remember, every day can be an adventure if you wear a pink tutu with an open heart. Until next time, loves!
Emma x
