New Mum's Christmas Gift List & Baby Registry 2016

With the beginning of December in sight, 'tis the season to be jolly...and if you're pregnant or have a new baby, it's also the season to splash a lot of cash. Luckily, your friends and family are likely to be extra generous this year; who doesn't love a Christmas baby after all?!

Enter the Follow Your Sunshine 2016 New Mum's Christmas Gift List & Baby Registry to help you to decide which items are of the utmost importance to include on your (and your baby's) wishlist to Santa this year. And if there is a yummy mummy or cutie patootie in your life, you can use it to show off your thoughtful present buying skills without breaking the bank too!

Sleep

Chicco Next2Me

If there is one product that I would recommend to any prospective parents, it is this. With a detachable side, it can be fixed onto the side of your bed, helping your baby to feel closer to you and making safe co-sleeping a doddle. Plus it's lightweight and easily transportable too.

Sleepyhead of Sweden

 
We've used our Sleepyhead as a cot insert, travel bed, handy portable nap time spot, and a safe place to put Sophia down when we needed to be hands-free before she learnt to roll! Sophia loves how cosy it makes her feel at night, and for this reason we're about to upgrade from the Deluxe to the Grand.

Whisbear 

Our baby sleep saviour! The Whisbear plays white noise, has a standby mode for when your baby wakes, and is super cute and soft to the touch too. Find out more here.

Eat

IKEA Antilop High Chair

A streamlined and simple design, this highchair has an easily detachable table and seat, which means that the lazy parents amongst us (ahem, yup, me!) can just shove the whole thing straight into the dishwasher after use. Let's face it, if you're attempting baby-led weaning like we are, you're probably going to be doing this a lot.

Ella's Kitchen 

When you don't have the time for cooking, puréeing, sautéing and mashing the organic ingredients you have purchased at the local farmer's market (ha ha ha...), these pouches are a handy alternative to pop into your bag for quick lunches and snacks on the go. They're made using all-organic ingredients with no additives too.

Bath 

Vita Coco Coconut Oil

There are all too many reasons to #swearbyit - both for mum (conditioner, lip balm, make up remover!!) and baby (cradle cap, nappy rash and healthy cooking when you reach weaning stage). Read more here.

Aleva Naturals

Natural and organic products are my preference for Sophia's delecate skin, and as Aleva Naturals products smell heavenly and leave her skin feeling super soft, they are ideal. It's also a bonus that they are also a hair and body wash in one, meaning that we don't have to spend too much time faffing about with the washing part of bath time, and have more time to enjoy splashing around.

Play

Bumbo

I like the fact that Bumbos are ergonomically shaped so that they're super comfy for little bottoms. Where are the adult-sized versions?! Ideal for those times when some concentrated play or reading is required. Or when you need to shove them in front of In The Night Garden, safe in the knowledge that they can't get into mischief while you take a quick shower (don't judge me!).

Fisher Price Rainforest range

From the activity gym to the bouncer, the Jumperoo to the swing, Sophia has used one item or other of the rainforest range since pretty much day one. The bright colours, sounds and music are great for developing key motor, visual and auditory skills, and many of the parts are detachable to become toys for on the move.

Zoggs Float

One of the major perks of living in a hot country is the fact that we can swim on an almost daily basis. Our float has therefore been one of our go-to pieces of kit, and it's helped Sophia to become accustomed to the water while feeling safe and protected. She also looks pretty cute in it when her little legs pedal under the water to propel herself along.

Travel

Bugaboo Cameleon Travel System & Accessories

I probably don't need to do too much to sell the Bugaboo to you, as it's well-known in mummy circles as being one of the best stroller systems out there, so I'll just give you three reasons why I think it pips its competitors to the post: 1. It's sturdy! You can attach ten tonnes of shopping to the handle and still it doesn't seem to ever lose its balance, keeping your precious cargo safe inside; 2. It's got a great turning circle. Trust me when I say that after pushing a buggy around every day for 8 months, this becomes important; 3. The additional accessories you can buy are endless. If you crave coordination, you are blessed with seat covers and parasols and cup holders and blankets to enhance your (and your baby's) Bugaboo experience!
 
Choopie Citybucket

It might sound a bit sad, but I don't know what I did before this pram caddie came into my life, especially now the days are cooler in Doha, and I'm able to get out and about a lot more with Sophia. It fits any brand of stroller, collapses with the stroller for easy storage and even has an insulated cup holder compartment for much-needed caffeinated drinks (or a bottle if you like).

Smythson Personalised Passport Covers

These personalised passport covers were part of my wedding gift to Mr Sunshine, and when we found out that we were having a girl and had decided on a name, Mr S suggested we had one made for her too. They are made from real leather, can be embossed in different colours and styles and are a must for any families who aren't willing to give up the travel bug when their precious bundle arrives.

Ergobaby Cool Air

This baby carrier has been a staple with us on our travels, as it's lightweight and breathable, so that Sophia stays cosy or cool in any type of weather. It has four different carrying positions, comes with an infant insert for use with tiny babies, and is one of Sophia's very favourite nap spots too.

Jem & Bea Changing Bag

I bought this changing bag because, well, it didn't look like a changing bag! I love the soft leather and designer handbag feel to it, but soon came to adore the capacity, accessories and storage compartments even more. I loved it so much in fact, that I just bought another for my friend who is having a baby in January.

For more travel-related ideas, head to 'How To Travel With A Baby'

For Mum

Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra

The comfiest nursing bra I have ever worn, and the only one I would ever purchase again. It fits snugly, comes in a multitude of colours, and doesn't make you feel like a frump. Read more here.

Emma Bridgewater mugs

I am a tea addict, so my mug collection is embarrasingly huge. If I had a choice however, I would only ever drink out of my hand painted, individually designed Emma Bridgewater mugs. I love them! As a busy and tired mum, someone offering you a cup of tea is a godsend but someone buying you a pretty mug to put your tea in is priceless.

Qatar-Based Stocking Fillers

Umm Mu Hadmade - Making It Personal

The absolutely lovely (and incredibly talented!) Shafna never really liked needlecraft when she was younger. Her mother bought her a sewing machine because she thought that every household should have one, but it lived for a while on a shelf gathering dust. Then one day she took it down. She was inspired by the birth of her children to start making clothes, and she discovered she was actually quite good at it. Several years (and the stocking of several heaving fabric closets!) later, and she has a successful business, hand making everything from garments for girls, to cushions, quilts and framed birth announcements. She made Sophia the most beautiful little dress, and matching knickerbockers which we absolutely love! Check out her Facebook page here.

Patt Handcraft

Patt's stunning handmade items first came to our attention before Sophia was born, when we commissioned her to make the pretty name garland which now hangs above the cot in her room. Since then, we have received a nursing cover, which I used almost daily during the early days, and a gorgeous, characterful owl cushion which matches the decor of her nursery. Patt's creativity grew from making little gifts for friends and family back in Portugal where she is from, to later having her own stalls at various craft fairs around Doha. She works with her clients to personalise most of their designs, and is constantly working on new ideas to expand her range. Check out her Facebook page here.

Monkey Tail Qatar

We love Sophia's pretty floral swimsuit set from Monkey Tail. They sell a huge range of swimwear for kids in various eye-catching patterns, as well as a large range of gorgeous Spanish shoes, bags, hats and hair accessories. Check out their Facebook page here.

Crochet Candy

Kirsten lives just down the road from me, and I met her at a weekly gathering of mums and babies. I knew that she was a creative and resourceful mummy, but it only came to my attention fairly recently that she was also incredibly talented at crocheting too! I just had to get my hands on these gorgeous little yellow Converse for a recent baby shower gift, but she makes many more items besides. Check out her Facebook page here.

For more baby gift ideas and inspiration, head to 'Sophia's Nursery Reveal' 

Please note that some of the above items were provided for review. However, as always all views are my own

6 Reasons To Choose Zengo For Your Next Doha Date Night

There's a new restaurant in town, and I have an inkling that you're going to like it. Mr Sunshine and I had heard that it was so special in fact that it was our first and only choice of restaurant to visit in celebration of my mother in law's last evening in Qatar last week. One mind-blowing meal later, and Zengo is now firmly on my list of places to visit for an extra special date night - and when date nights are as rare as they are for me these days, I can afford to be picky! 

Here are six reasons why I think you would enjoy a trip to Zengo for your next date too.

1. The views are breathtaking

Located on the 61st floor of Kempinski Residences and Suites, the city's tallest tower, the restaurant boasts sweeping vistas over Westbay and The Corniche. This almost birds-eye panorama of the skyline is one of the most impressive that I have seen in my three years in Doha. It adds a large dose of romance and excitement to the whole experience, and I can't wait to return in December when the restaurant starts to open for lunch to enjoy the view in daylight hours.

2. The vibe is chic

Inside the building, the view is no less impressive. The modern wooden and metallic interiors and cavernous ceilings create a feeling of elegance and space. Origami-style bird sculptures float above your head, reminding you that you're way above the clouds and there are special spaces to be discovered, including an upper level for entertainment and parties; a long, open sushi counter; and open and more discreet dining areas to choose from in different parts of the restaurant, depending on your preference.

3. The menu has been thoughtfully developed to perfection

These days I wouldn't expect anything else from Celebrity Chef and restaurateur Richard Sandoval, whose other restaurants in Doha, including Isla (formerly Pampano) and Toro Toro are among my most frequented dining spots. The carefully-curated and extensive menu is an entirely unique take on Pan-Asian cuisine, inspired by Chef Sandoval's travels across Asia, and it features everything from Sushi to Wok Dishes, and Curries to Dim Sum, each with its own special twist on the original dish.

4. The food is completely different to anything else in Doha

Chef Marko Maric, formerly of Toro Toro fame has been appointed to head up Zengo's kitchen, and there aren't many more qualified for the job. As all food bloggers say however, the proof is (literally) in the pudding, and boy is this pudding great! In fact, the Chili Chocolate pudding with burnt milk icecream (which takes half an hour to make, so order this with your mains if you want it!) and mini donuts really are two of the best desserts I've ever had.

Precede these with the Sashimi Platter, Shrimp Tempura, Chicken Karaage, Short Rib Dumplings, Pumpkin Curry, Stir Fried Noodles, Nasi Goreng and Wagyu Beef and you will be one of the happiest diners in Doha.

5. The waiting staff remind you of home

And by this I don't mean that they're like the waiting staff in your home country; they actually welcome you as if you're family! Our waiter, Sone was knowledgeable and ever-present without being overbearing. We were politely and kindly talked through every aspect of each dish as it came to our table. A high chair, baby crockery and a pot of baby-appropriate vegetables were fetched at our request, and no judgement was passed as Sophia proceeded to throw the thoughtfully prepared food all over the floor. Sone answered our difficult questions without blinking and as we left it was like saying goodbye to an old friend. We promised to return soon. Yes, Zengo is fine dining, but with none of the stiffness that you would usually expect of such an establishment. Instead it is warm and just as surprisingly enticing as its food.

6. The night doesn't have to end there

With Chef Sandoval's highly acclaimed Z-Lounge just next door, there is no excuse not to pop to the bar for a celebratory post-dinner tipple. The cocktail list is extensive, and if you leave feeling anything like we did, you're going to welcome a little sit down in a cosy armchair while you slowly disgest the feast you've just consumed.

Zengo is an excellent addition to the Doha dining scene, and I'm already planning our next date night there. See you back there in 2017 then Sone?!

Details:

Al Qassar Street, West Bay, Doha | 4405 3333

We were guests of Zengo on this occasion, but as always all views are my own.

Let's Talk About...Marsa Malaz Kempinski

I have always admired the Marsa Malaz Kempinski for its gorgeous architecture and luxurious interiors. Whole weekends have been dedicated to spending every mealtime in one of its seven world class restaurants and lounges. If the ambience and food wasn't enough, the hotel is now pulling out all the stops to bring its visitors high quality entertainment too. Following on from my run-down of Intercontinental Doha The City's top restaurant offers last month, this month I'm listing all of the reasons why the restaurants of the Marsa Malaz are November's places to be and be seen in Doha.

1. Acclaimed singer Jennifer Grout comes to Al Sufra

For those of you that haven't heard of Arabic singer Jennifer Grout, she has an inspiring story to tell. Born in America, she fell in love with Arabic music aged 23 when she discovered a clip on YouTube. Several months, a one-way flight to Morocco and some intensive study of Arabic language and music later, the talented musician had reached the final of Arabs Got Talent and gained millions of fans around the world.

And now she is singing every Monday through to Saturday from 8.30 - 11.00pm in the beautiful Levant-inspired restaurant Al Sufra. I've watched her perform, and her silky-smooth voice is the perfect accompaniment to a night of authentic Arabic dining in the ornate surroundings of this unique restaurant. She's here until December, don't miss Grout.

2.  El Faro is making a song and dance about their food

As if the drama of the never-ending Friday & Saturday Spanish Brunches, bottomless Sangria and delectable dessert platters wasn't enough, the diner's experience of El Faro has now been enhanced by the addition of impressive flemenco duo Laura Rodriguez and Joti de Jerez.

Now that the weather is perfect, you can sit out on the restaurant's pretty terrace to enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf while tapping your feet to Hispanic beats. Ariba!

(Side note: make sure you set aside several hours to enjoy everything this restaurant has to offer - we were at brunch for five hours last weekend and only managed to make our way through a tiny proportion of the menu available to us!)

 

3. Brunching in true Friday-style at Sawa

Sawa has always been one of my favourite brunches for the choice, quality and presentation of the food on offer, but until recently the atmosphere has been disctinctly lacking. Cue the addition of talented singer and guitarist, Jessica Gibson to add a bit more of a party vibe to the Marsa Malaz' Signature Brunch.

Plaudits to the Marsa Malaz for finally getting in tune with what the brunch crowd is looking for!

It's definitely shaping up to be a fun time to visit the Marsa Malaz, especially as they've now opened up all of their numerous outdoor terraces to diners who are wanting to take advantage of the cooler weather and impressive vistas. My bank balance is taking a beating however, because the hotel just happens to be just across the road from my apartment...

Details:

Costa Malaz Bay, The Pearl, Doha, Qatar | 4035 5555

Follow Your Sunshine was a guest at Marsa Malaz Kempinski for some of the above, but as always all views are my own.

Interview With A Mummy Blogger: Clumsy Chic

Ever since I arrived in Qatar, there's been one blogger that I have secretly creeped on admired from afar. Karen's blog, Clumsy Chic embodies everything I believe in in life: displaying creativity, celebrating passions and embracing effortless living. It was a happy coincidence when Karen fell pregnant and gave birth to the cutie, Naomi Moon just two weeks after Sophia was born. Soon our babies were attending the same nursery and became best buddies, and not long after that Karen and I became firm friends too.

Many of my readers will know of Clumsy Chic already, but for those of you that haven't stumbled across Karen's blog, allow me to introduce you to the lady behind the brand. Fashionista, entrepreneurial blogger and super mom (as well as someone I can lean on after I've had a rough night and I'm feeling like a 'Mombie' - her word!), she is a woman that we can all look up to.
 
What have you enjoyed most about being a new mum?

I honestly enjoy spending time with Naomi. She’s a happy baby! I love waking up in the morning to her voice and her smiles. She’s now 7 months and has really started to show her personality and it’s fun watching her grow to this little human now. I love seeing her discover the world around her; the curiosity in her eyes gave me a fresh perspective on life. I see things from her point of view and it made me appreciate the little moments and things in life.

What's been the most difficult thing about being a new mum and what advice would you give to other mums experiencing the same thing?

Motherhood is the hardest job in the world and we all have different struggles. I had difficulty bonding with Naomi in the beginning and it took me a while to open up about it here. There were times where it made me wonder if I was fit to be a mom or if this bond would ever happen. The best I’ve done was to recognize that something was off and asked for help from my family and close mommy friends. My advice is to talk about how you feel and don’t ever let society define what motherhood is supposed to be like for you. It’s a personalized journey and there is no right or wrong.

How has life as an expat defined your experience as a new mum?

Having a support system is so important as a new mom and I’m very fortunate that my husband and I both have our families here. We make it a priority for Naomi to spend time with them and of course, their help is invaluable.

But I know the majority of expat moms in Doha don’t have their families out here and I find that there is a very supportive community of moms that can become your support system. Other moms instinctively embraced me as soon as I gave birth and they’ve become part of my mommy tribe. 

What are your top three things to do with Naomi in Qatar?

Naomi loves being outside and we go for strolls in her Bugaboo around The Pearl’s esplanade every morning. Now that the weather is getting better, we go for a swim or head to the beach on the weekends. She loves the water and she looks darn cute in her swimsuit. I also try to get her involved in a number of social activities like her nursery and going on play dates. Hands down, her favorite play date is Sophia.

You are one of the most stylish women I know! Does your individual style extend to Naomi's wardrobe too?

Oh thank you! When I found out I was having a girl, one of the first things that popped into my mind was all the clothes I will get to shop for her. My style has definitely influenced her wardrobe, which is more on the neutral color tones and lots of stripes. She’s adopted my flare for French fashion for sure.

I’m trying to get her to wear more pinks and girly colors, as there have been several occasions where people have mistaken her for a boy because she’s in jeans and blue striped t-shirt most of the time. I also recently bought headbands for that same reason.

What are your top 3 baby clothing stores?

I shop at H&M kids for every day clothes like leggings, onesies, and t-shirts. I particularly love their H&M conscious range. 

Monoprix has a baby range called Bout’Chou and it’s probably my favorite place to shop for baby clothes. They have beautiful prints and fabrics and their selections are pretty fashionable and modern, it’s definitely right up my style alley.

For special occasions, I splurge on Jacadi. She has worn a few pieces when she goes to fashion events with me. She has a better wardrobe than me now.

I enjoy shopping for her more than for myself now. It’s so fun dressing girls.

If you had to make three wishes for Naomi's future, what would they be?

This is a good question!

My number one wish for Naomi is for her to grow up loving and accepting herself. Much of our lives right now revolve around social media and seeking validations of our worth by the number of likes and followers we get. I want her to grow up embracing her strengths and accepting her weaknesses and most importantly, being kind to herself and to others.

My second wish is for her to explore her curiosity and have a sense of adventure to travel and explore different cultures. Traveling is the best form of life lesson. I want her to get to know different people from all sorts of background, and get to know herself better. 

Lastly and most importantly, I want her to grow up to be a strong independent woman. I was brought up with the belief that I can do anything as long as I set my mind into it and this made me fearless and determined to go after my dreams. I want to instill the same confidence to her and support the idea that anything she wants to do, she can.

Which mother(s) have inspired you / do you look up to and why?

My mom! Ever since becoming a mom, it was like I’ve stepped in her shoes and understood what she’s been through raising three children by herself in the beginning. I want to hug and tell her I love her any chance I get. She’s the strongest and most loving woman I know and I wish to be that kind of mom one day.

How has your relationship with Mr. Clumsy Chic changed since becoming a mother?

My relationship with Anthony has gotten stronger now that we are a family.
I saw a different side of him now that he is a dad and it made me love and admire him even more. He’s very hands-on and a supportive husband.
Nothing brings me more joy than watching Anthony and Naomi together. They adore each other to pieces.

I also feel that we are stronger as a team now. You go through so much during the first couple of months that you have to stick and support each other every step of the way. Good communication, empathy and love are key to us.

Up until now, your blog has mainly been about fashion - will this change now that you're a mother?

Clumsy Chic is a lifestyle blog that revolves around the idea of effortlessly infusing beauty into everyday life through fashion, beauty, travel and home décor. The blog is an extension of how I live my life and I’ve recently started taking my readers through my journey of being a mom. I am in no way an expert, but the blog will see my stumbling through motherhood!

You can read more about Karen's life and loves at: www.clumsychic.com
Photo credits: Sofia Graniello Méndez (Instagram: @sofiagraniello)

My Pick of the Nursing Bras: Bravado!® Designs

It took me nearly seven months to find a nursing bra that I found comfortable to wear. SEVEN MONTHS! As if breast feeding wasn't awkward enough in those early weeks without that constant restricting sensation around the chest area, which felt as though I was wearing a straight jacket. 

On my third day postpartum when my milk came in, I woke up to find that my boobs had almost tripled in size overnight, and were leaking. I thought I'd adequately prepared by buying underwear in a size larger to what I normally wore, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't fit into anything I owned. Cue a frantic trip to a local department store with a newborn, grizzly baby in tow while I bought the entire range of maternity bras in stock. They were very basic and not very comfortable but I didn't have the time, energy or inclination to shop around, so I made do. 

Fast forward seven months of awkward yanking, itching and strap fumbling and I finally came across the Bravado!® Designs Signature Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra. It's made from soft, stretchy fabric which hugs your body and adapts to your changing shape. It has removable foam inserts for discretion (a.k.a. so nobody can see your nipples or tell that they're leaking) and it even includes a bra conversion kit so that you can turn it from a nursing bra to a normal bra once you've stopped breast feeding. Pretty neat! 

 

It comes in a range of colours (mine is in the colour 'Garnet' which is new to the range), and looks great under tight t-shirts and vests, creating a very natural shape with no visible seams. But best of all, it's so comfy that I sometimes forget that I'm even wearing it. 

When you're a busy, tired mum, comfort is everything. And now that I've discovered this bra, you'd have to pay me to go back to the ill-fitting and uncomfortable maternity bras that I was wearing before.

Product was provided for review, but as always all views are my own.

Our Nursery Choice and Journey: Twyla Nursery, The Pearl Qatar

I'll never forget the first time I left Sophia at nursery. My arms were shaking as I passed her over to one of the assistants, and I held onto her for just a little bit too long, breathing in her smell and savouring those last few moments before I had to give her up for seven hours.

Apart from the time that I was bridesmaid at my best friend's wedding and my mother in law took Sophia for the day, it was seven hours longer than I'd been apart from her in the five months that she'd been alive. And the first time I'd ever left her alone at all with relative strangers.

Luckily, with supportive, understanding smiles, her teachers kindly but firmly ushered me out of the room before I started weeping. On the way out, I paused to look back through the window of her classroom and realised that she hadn't even noticed that I'd gone. She was already engaged in the activity her teachers were setting up, and she looked decidedly happy. This was definitely going to be more difficult for me than it was for her.

Ever since that first day, I have been inundated with questions. Some people wanted to know why I was sending her to nursery when she was so young and I wasn't yet back at work. Some wanted to know how I'd chosen the nursery that I did and whether I was happy with my decision. Everyone wanted to know how Sophia was getting on. I waited long enough to feel like I was qualified to give you all a thorough response, and now here it is. I hope it will help a few mums going through the difficult transition of placing their child into daycare, and answer some of the questions that you have about the process too.

Trust me, it all ends up being a lot easier than you think it's going to be!

OK, there was that one time that she had a bit of an off day and I received a call saying that Sophia was refusing her bottle and could I come and collect her three hours early...But even then I arrived to find her sleeping soundly in her designated cot in the sleeping room, clutching onto her Jellycat bunny and blissfully unaware that I had sprinted all the way there in the scorching midday sun, and had arrived sweaty and panting, about to pop an artery with worry.

In time I've come to realise just how adaptable and resilient babies really are, and how cherished and supported she is at nursery, and my anxiety about leaving her has all but evaporated.

I didn't have a lot of choice when it came to the decision of whether to put Sophia into nursery or not. Faced with an imminent return to work (which has since been postponed), I frantically began to research the various childcare options available to us in Qatar. We could have opted for a nanny, but we felt that a structured day, a change of scenery and contact with other children at nursery would be good for her, especially as she was already starting to show signs of being an inquisitive baby who craves stimulating environments and social interaction (in short, she was getting bored in our apartment with the same old boring toys and only me for company - and who could blame her!).

Then came the difficult task of choosing which nursery to place her in. I read through all of the online resources I could find - the most helpful of which was the Doha Mums Nursery Guide, and we weighed up all of our options: British curriculum vs. another; proximity to home vs. proximity to the office; various opening times and policies and languages spoken.

We eventually alighted on Twyla Nursery: a British curriculum nursery in a spacious, colourful and stimulating setting, with some of the friendliest and most welcoming staff that we had encountered on our search. The hours (7am - 2pm, which can be expanded up to 6pm for a little extra money) suited our daily schedule and we were excited about the fact that even though Sophia was in the youngest class, 'Cheeky Chicks', they still had a structured day with set activities aimed at her particular developmental stage, and that they were supportive of individual parenting styles - embracing things like baby-led weaning for example. Based on The Pearl, it also happened to be the nursery closest to our home, which was a bonus!

Much to my relief, from day one, Sophia has adored going to Twyla. She shrieks with excitement as we enter the front door at the beginning of the day. She reaches out to her teacher's open arms when we arrive in her classroom without a glance back in my direction (much to my disappointment!). She enjoys circle time with her friends, singing songs and interacting with the other babies, learning the rules of social interaction. She adores the sensory play that her teachers organise each week, and I find myself looking forward to the photos that they send me of her giggling uncontrollably as a ball was bounced in front of her, or of her face screwed up in concentration as she touched ice for the first time, or played with multi-coloured balls floating in water. She also loves going to play in the 'Outside Den' and getting some fresh air during the cooler months. When I pick her up, she is full of gummy smiles which make my heart melt a little inside.

She has always been a baby that has picked things up quickly, but since she started going to nursery her development has come on in leaps and bounds. "Sophia is so strong and so determined!" her teachers told me at the beginning. Now it's, "Sophia is so mobile now, and she's pulling herself into a standing position. Soon she's going to be walking!". I see her watching the older children and trying to copy what they do. She's such a sociable baby these days, and wants to reach out and touch other children, to communicate with them and sometimes even plant a big sloppy kiss on their cheek! I've loved watching this part of her character emerge and I know that nursery has had a big part to play in helping her to grow into the friendly, sociable and confident little girl that she's rapidly becoming.

Best buddies - Baby Sunshine and Baby Moon

From my side, I feel like the nursery has done a great job at giving me the confidence I need to get on with my own life while I'm away from Sophia. I receive a daily report in her log book which notes everything from how many diaper changes she's had, to how much food she's eaten and naps she's taken (and when), and gives a little commentary on her day and how she's been. I can't wait to get home and devour this, partly because I feel like I can live a bit of her day with her through this, and partly because of the sweet comments the teachers always write about my daughter, which as a proud mama, naturally I love!

They are slowly phasing out this book in favour of an App, which you can download on your phone which is updated by the teachers electronically and includes photos of the children enjoying the activities they have undertaken that day.

Most importantly, above all else, I have loved the fact that the nursery is such a warm and nurturing environment. It might sound silly, but the teachers and assistants do truly love children - you can see it in the delight in their eyes when Sophia comes through the door in the morning and the way that they interact with all of the babies in their care. All of them have years of experience and many of them even have families of their own back home.

For all of you parents that are about to embark on your own nursery journey, I urge you to find somewhere that can offer your child this kind of environment; a 'home away from home' if you like. State of the art facilities and world-renowned curriculums are all very well, but up until the age of four when your child starts school, all they really need is love.

And hang on in there, the separation does get easier. Especially when you realise that you have the time for a manicure, to take a bath, write a blog post AND a sleep all in one day. Having coped for so long without any family in the country for support, I finally have a bit of breathing space to do some of the things that are just for me, which I have neglected since becoming a mummy. In turn, I find that when I'm with her again after a day in nursery, I'm more present and engaged, giving her the time and attention she needs and deserves. Nursery costs money, but that, to me, is priceless.
 
How did you decide which nursery to go with and how has your nursery journey been for you and your child?

Useful details:

Twyla Nursery, Parcel 16, 29 La Croissette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl Qatar | +974 4427 3422
www.twylanursery.com