Catford Calling! (Blog Post #1189)
Helloooo darlings! Your favourite pink tutu-clad queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, here, and I'm buzzing with excitement because... drumroll please... I'm in CATFORD! That's right, the legendary South East London suburb, and I'm practically bouncing with anticipation.
It's a gloriously sunny day in Catford and the energy in this vibrant neighbourhood is already sparkling. You know, as a self-proclaimed Queen of Sparkle, I just can't resist the magnetic pull of a bustling city. Plus, there's a whisper in the wind about a phenomenal vintage clothing store tucked away in a corner, so Iām feeling pretty optimistic about adding some sassy new treasures to my collection. And if you know me, you know there's always a special place in my sparkly wardrobe for a dazzling pink tutu!
But let's rewind a littleā¦ It all began with a magical train journey, which, as you know, is my preferred mode of transport. Honestly, nothing beats the romance of a train ride. Iāve got my comfy carriage reserved, of course ā after all, it wouldn't be Pink Tutu Sparkles on a journey without a bit of diva flair. I settled in with a good book (currently indulging in "The Ballet Shoes" ā I just love a classic!), sipped on a delightful pink lemonade, and enjoyed the panoramic views flashing past the window. I could have sworn I saw a fluffy white horse grazing in the countryside as we rolled by ā they are my ultimate equestrian dream, of course! Maybe that's why I adore Catford so much ā it's that lovely, rustic charm just a stone's throw away from the bustling city.
Speaking of bustling cities, I can already hear the echoes of music coming from the trendy coffee shops on the main drag. Itās the perfect combination of vibrant energy and mellow vibes ā a bit like my persona, if you ask me! I've already picked out the perfect vintage pink tutu from my collection to dazzle everyone at tonightās performance at the "The Catford Carnival," (such a fabulously fitting title, don't you think?) And, I've been brainstorming my setlist, trying to find that magical combination of ballet, pop, and sass to get the whole crowd moving. Because you know, when Pink Tutu Sparkles graces a stage, you know it's gonna be a whirlwind of fabulous fun!
For those of you new to my journey, I'm Alex, and by day I am a scientist, crafting wondrous things in a laboratory. Don't be fooled, my dear readers, though my science career may focus on the intricacies of textiles, by night, I'm transforming into Pink Tutu Sparkles, the pink-obsessed drag artist! It all began, Iām not sure why, but this is true, in the middle of my science studies! There I was, amidst lab coats and beakers, with a mind fixated on intricate formulas and experiments, when something happened. The university held a charity event and, impulsively, I ended up wearing a pink tutu! Now, that's how it all began. From that moment, my passion for all things pink, bubbly, and oh-so-tutu blossomed! And you know what? There was a moment of pure joy, when my life seemed to explode in a magnificent cascade of pink sequins and glitter!
But it's more than just the tutus, itās the entire experience, you see? The laughter, the cheers, the sparkle in the eyes of everyone I encounterā¦ and yes, maybe a tiny bit of that āwhat-will-I-wearā excitement you feel the night before a special event. You're likely reading this post because you know the magic of that excitement ā don't lie! I know youāve thought about slipping into a sparkly tutu at some point ā just admit it. You've considered that rush of confidence as the spotlight shines down, and the sheer thrill of a spontaneous, unexpected act of pink tutu bliss. You've seen my sparkly performances and watched those joyous, uninhibited moments come to life, right? Because you can be that person! I don't need to see your āpink-tutu moment,ā but just the thought of it, wellā¦ it fills my world with shimmering, bubbly energy, donāt you think?
Speaking of shimmering energy, I'm heading to Catfordās famous market right now. Imagine my delight: it's a feast for the senses! Colourful stalls bursting with treasures and trinkets - everything from vibrant, flamboyant flowers to delightful homemade cakes. Did I tell you Iāve developed quite a sweet tooth since I moved out of my Derbyshire countryside home and found my āpink pathā ? I do have the metabolism of a hummingbird when it comes to sweets ā just can't help it! My motto is ālive, love, laugh and wear pinkā ā¦ that usually goes for all things in life but certainly works for cake!
And my adventures haven't just ended there! Last month, I had the pleasure of travelling to York (which reminded me, darling, did you know York is the home of the world's most magnificent Yorkie chocolate - absolutely delightful!). But more importantly, Iāve been soaking in the local ballet scene ā a huge part of who I am. After all, my love for ballet is a part of everything I do. My performance tonight is actually a celebration of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," you know. And since you are reading this, you know I absolutely love a performance thatās inspired by the magic of Shakespeare. If Iām lucky I may even get to see some lovely vintage dance shoes to add to my wardrobe ā oh the possibilities. And let's be honest, my darling readers, ballet shoes and pink tutus just go hand in hand, right? Theyāre my signature!
But Catford isnāt just about vintage fashion and breathtakingly delightful performances, my love. It's about embracing those everyday, magic moments and the sense of community I find in every street corner. You can sense it when you walk down the charming side streets - it's buzzing with joy! There's just this indescribable, electrifying spirit here, just begging you to dive in and discover its soul, which, by the way, reminds me of a story. Just before leaving, a charming local artisan was showing me his hand-painted furniture. Imagine: delicate flourishes of color, graceful curves, and designs that echoed the beauty of my beloved pink tutu! Isn't that amazing, darlings? There's always beauty to be found if you are open to exploring!
So, Iām off now, my lovelies. My pink tutu and I are about to shimmy our way through this exciting journey! Itās almost time for the carnival - expect plenty of sparkling photos and fabulous details. Don't forget to check in, and who knows? Maybe, just maybe, youāll be tempted to wear a pink tutu in your life, too! Because after all, we're all sparkly stars inside. And my mission in life is to encourage you to embrace it, every single day!
Till next time, darling readers, keep shimmering,
Your forever sparkly, Pink Tutu Sparkles.
XOXO