London calling

It's amazing how much life can change. Almost five years ago, I threw away my winter coat (I took someone burning a hole in the sleeve at a pub as a sign that I wasn't meant to have one and should live in a sunnier place) and left London with two boxes, ready for something new. This time, I was back, remembering some of the places I love and catching up with friends with Gav and our growing bump.

While it may have been a mad metro ride that saw me holding onto my hat and my belly as we minded the gap and watched for the closing doors; between delicious (gluten-free) dinners, having the baby thump around to We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre, and shopping it up a bit on Oxford and Regent Street, it was good to be back.

"... Millions of people swarming like flies round Waterloo underground

But Terry and Julie cross over the river

Where they feel safe and sound

And they don't need no friends

As long as they gaze on Waterloo sunset

They are in paradise"

- The Kinks -

And Paddington, the bear from deepest darkest Peru, has made it to Muscat awaiting the arrival of a new friend.

Gluten-free faves:

Wholefoods - definitely a treat. My suggestion is to head to the fresh fruit juice bar and balance out your gluten-free lemon drizzle cake breakfast with a protein hemp shake.

Carluccios - If you think Italian's off the menu, think again. This cosy restaurant and deli (of Antonio Carluccio fame) on Garrick Street in Covent Garden has a gluten-free treat of a menu available too. I'll be back for the the spicy Italian sausage pasta. If you need any persuading, check out the menus for yourself.

Snog - As naughty as it sounds, this heaven-sent frozen yoghurt bar (conveniently across the road from Carluccios) couldn't be better for you (body and soul). Its frozen yoghurts are all gluten-free, ready to be topped with your choice of fresh fruit, nuts, berries... even gluten-free chocolate brownie pieces!!