Hey everyone! It's your girl, Clara here, coming to you live from Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador, for a very special Tutu Tuesday! I'm so excited to be bringing you this week's post because Paradise is truly living up to its name - the stunning scenery, the fresh ocean air, the friendly faces, it's a little slice of heaven. And when you're surrounded by such natural beauty, it's impossible not to feel inspired, especially as a ballet dancer!
Paradise is a bit off the beaten path for a ballerina, I'll admit. It's not exactly a major ballet hub, unlike say, Toronto or Montreal. But, that doesn't mean that dance doesn't thrive here! Actually, I've found a real passion for dance amongst the people in Paradise. The community spirit is so strong here, and that includes their love for the arts!
As a dancer, my travel kit always includes my favorite tutu for #tututuesday - you can never go wrong with a classic. I went for a romantic, dreamy look for my outfit in Paradise: A blush pink tulle tutu, perfect for a sunset stroll. I layered a pale lavender camisole and a cozy cream cardigan for that touch of Canadian winter warmth, even on this balmy, sun-kissed day! Paired with my comfy hiking boots, it’s an ideal combo for exploring the wild beauty of Paradise!
Tutu Time with a Twist: Exploring the CoastFirst stop for my tutu exploration? The picturesque harbourfront! I swear, Paradise is straight out of a postcard, with its colorful, clapboard houses perched on the hills, the turquoise water lapping at the shore, and the sailing boats gently bobbing in the bay. It’s all so serene, and truly takes me back to my childhood ballet dreams, you know, when I imagined I was a whimsical, magical being in the most beautiful of landscapes.
There’s a very calming, contemplative energy to the coastline that just allows you to feel that moment of peace within yourself and just soak it all in. And I couldn't resist twirling with the sea breeze in my tulle tutu – talk about magical moments! I must say, the wind definitely provided a dynamic, unplanned, and impromptu choreography for me! As I’d spin, I’d catch that perfect moment in the sunlight that caught my skirt. It felt so whimsical, I could almost feel like I was on stage. And guess what? I even spotted a group of little ones, so engrossed in their dance practice – maybe future ballerinas in the making, all on this breathtaking Paradise coast.
We have to make a note about that famous Newfoundland weather! It’s known for its variety, it truly is. It can go from calm and serene one minute to whipping winds, sun showers, and, you guessed it, even a little bit of snow. I am a dancer and that means learning to dance with all of that change, both on stage and on a Tuesday in Paradise!
Dance with Nature's CanvasI also made my way to the coast to admire the magnificent geological marvels! You've got towering cliffs that stand guard along the shoreline, and breathtaking rocky formations sculpted by time and the unforgiving force of the Atlantic. And of course, the rugged beauty is beyond captivating! The color of the rocks varies with the weather. I especially loved the dramatic colours - dark gray against the bright blue sky – creating the most stunning backdrop. So for #tututuesday I did my graceful turns and poses – taking advantage of every corner and crack, creating silhouettes against the ever-changing panorama of Paradise’s coastline. I truly felt like I was one with nature.
Of course, you know that you just can’t go to Paradise and not take a trip to see the iconic Cape Spear Lighthouse. As the most easterly point in North America, it’s the first point where the sun rises! A tutu and the historic light? The contrast is beautiful! There’s such an air of quiet intensity here – a powerful energy you don’t feel anywhere else. And just like every great ballerina knows that light plays an important part on the stage, so did I. And, as I twirled against this majestic lighthouse, my heart danced with delight at the contrast of pink against that strong red and white! My photos looked straight out of a fantasy, a classic tutu tale against the sea.
Tutu-tastic Treats: Food is an ArtformNow, no day in Paradise would be complete without sampling the local culinary delights. That brings us to a delightful detour for lunch – Newfoundland food! Newfoundland food has a strong culture, its a bit rough around the edges, hearty and packed full of flavour!
Here, I did my own little foodie ballet with a generous plate of cod, Newfoundland’s national delicacy. And, in my best dancer’s spirit of “always be prepared,” I brought along my own trusty snack stash. My ballerina- approved trail mix and my favourite green juice are all a girl needs to keep my energy levels high, even on a #tututuesday journey of epic proportions!
Tutu-ly Awesome Adventure in ParadiseLet me tell you, my dear friends, dancing around Paradise has been one of the most inspiring things I've done. From twirling along the coastal trails to posing amongst the striking rock formations to that quintessential lighthouse moment – every experience has been filled with a special energy. It’s not just the scenic beauty but also the warm community of this unique town – I was struck by their generous, welcoming spirit. They made this Tutu Tuesday one for the books.
So, as I bid farewell to Paradise and embark on new adventures in my ballet career, I'm carrying this unforgettable experience in my heart and already planning my next visit to this beautiful island.
I’ve already had some fellow dancers DMing me and sharing some amazing Tutu Tuesdays - and I’m thrilled that I was able to inspire so many to bring their #tututuesday style! And I’d love to hear about yours - share your #tututuesday adventures in the comments, I’d love to see how you are showcasing your own passion!
Don't forget to stay tuned for next week's #tututuesday adventure! I promise, it's going to be one for the ages. Until then, keep dancing, keep shining, and stay fashionable!
Here’s my #tututuesday take on things: - Go outside your comfort zone, even if you are in your own comfort zone: I stepped out of my Toronto world and explored something new. If it's out there, embrace it! -Make time for yourself and dance: Find what truly fuels you, dance, eat, create, and love - the balance is how to keep your soul ignited. -Spread a little bit of #tututuesday inspiration to others. We all need a bit of whimsy in our day! Stay Chic!