Last year I went to my first Leicester Vintage Carnival, held at Leicester Racecourse.

Dawn and I July 2017

It was a standout event, both for the music, food, stalls and great friends, but also because it was the first event I took the Pup, Theodore too.

At that point he was around 16 weeks old and was a walking fuzzball. The event was held in July and was a scorching day and he literally was a huge hit with all the visitors. Everyone wanted to stop and stroke him.

Vintage Pals July 2017

Nearly a year later, it was time for the Vintage Carnival again, however it had been brought forward to the beginning of May.

I ordered my early bird ticket and got ready to get dolled up and meet up with some amazing friends that I am so thankful to have come to know.

Theodore’s attendance was requested by my friends and I dare not let them down!

I woke up early on Saturday 12th May got myself ready in one of my favourite Pin Up Girl Clothing items, The Ella dress in Baton Rouge print (sadly no longer available)

Theodore on the Prance May 2018

I teamed it up with a pink vintage hat and accessorised it with the cutest white lucite bag.

Theodore had a new bandanna with Daisies on it. I packed a big bag with his food, cool towels, brush, water, sun block, treats, teddy bear and a couple of bowls. In my bag I had a small purse, bank cards and some sunglasses!

It literally was like taking a child out for the day.

It took around an hour to travel to the event and the sun was shining high in the sky. I knew that there were several friends already in attendance, but I needed to try and locate them.

Me with my Proud Boy

I had originally met Andy, Annette, Adam and Dawn at a local jive dance diner/club. Although we had always said hello in passing, for quite a long time we never really got to know each other. I am now sad how much time passed before I came to know them really well.

Dawn and I had attended the carnival together last year which is when I really go to know the marvellous Andy and Annette. A repeat at Twinwood really made my weekend amazing as I was gathered into their ‘family’ and welcomed like I had always belonged.

They are both amazing dancers and watching Andy spin Annette around the floor always makes me feel so happy. They really are the loveliest couple

Dance time

As you can imagine,  I was eager to see them again especially as I knew they would be there with their vintage car.

We got inside the enclosure and the first person I spotted was the lovely Alison and her Mum from Silly Old Sea Dog. Having met Alison a bunch of times (and indeed ordered some of her frocks) It is always nice to have a bit of a natter.

Alison of Silly Old Sea Dog and her perfect pooch

Moving on I went to the main ring area where there was a second music tent playing a lot of rock n roll. This was where I spotted some other long time friends, Mick and Nickie.

Mick and the Floof

Last year Mick had met the floofhound and fell in love. He was able to pick him up and cuddle him, however I don’t think he was prepared for how big and heavy he had gotten to be!

Dawn soon appeared; she has Theo-radar. She absolutely is in love with the boy and can’t wait to spend time with him so soon took him off my hands for a wander around the carnival!

Theodore and the lovely Dawn

Before she disappeared we had a couple of photographs together which Mick kindly took. I have to say we do scrub up quite well!

Lovely Ladies May 2018

The sun was still shining as Annette spotted a picnic bench big enough for us all. It was also situated right next to the rock n roll tent so we could listen to the live music whilst being comfortable in the fresh air. It also meant we were really near to the bar too.

The Delightful Dawn and Amazing Annette

We happily sat there for nearly three hours, soaking up the atmosphere and occasionally popping off to have a look at the vintage stalls and to replenish our drinks. I was actually quite responsible with my purchases; a pair of cream gloves and a brooch were my only purchases this time around, hopefully to go with an outfit I am planning for Twinwood.

Annette and Dawn had packed a picnic which was shared around and it genuinely was a really lovely day.

Mutual Appreciation Society

During the course of the day many people came and asked to stroke the pup and to take photographs. Like the diva he is, he performed on queue for everyone, especially when one of the professional cameramen came around.

The amazing Barry Pickering captured these photographs and I think literally the first one is the best photograph I have ever seen of my boy. I intend to get a copy of this and frame it for my little office space.

The best photo of Theodore I have ever seen

And another one!

Whilst we sat around chilling and chatting, a lovely lady I had met last year arrived. Lesley was someone who had bumped into me in 2017 and told me how I was such an inspiration to her and since then we have kept in touch via Facebook.

Lesley and her family

It was so great to see her again and of course we had to have a group photograph and lots of hugs!

Towards the latter part of the afternoon, one of the bands we were looking forward to listening to was JG and The Ultimates and I have to say we were NOT disappointed.

Andy seems to be enjoying it!

An amazing set was played which had everyone on their feet. The harmonica player was outstanding and the singer, Jay was electric. They really gave a knockout performance and the dancers on the floor loved all their numbers.

True Love

Sadly it was during this amazing set that the heavens decided to open. And I mean literally pour down for at least an hour.

By this time, I had my Elements Rainwear mac on, so my dress was nicely protected. However Theodore wasn’t and he was getting absolutely soaking wet. At first he was enjoying getting cooled down a little, but then it started to get a little chilly with it.

Time for home said Theodore…

Sadly, it was then that I decided I needed to be getting myself and my lovely boy home. It had been a great day and I had lovely spending time with such fabulous company, but enough was enough. It was time to get warm and dry.

Andy and Annette opted to get a lift with me, so we trudged back through the rain and eventually got into the car with the heating going. An hour later and we were all safely home.

It was the most amazing day again and I can’t wait to see what they come up with for next year!

Did you go? What did you think of it?

Till next time,

Tx