CABear | ExpatWoman.com
 

CABear

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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2012 - 08:46
What? Where are you moving?! Both my DSs were like this and I found baby wearing the only way to get things done. DD is so much easier, thank god! Please fill me in on where you are going, coffee maybe??
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Latest post on 15 May 2012 - 11:25
My 4 year old DS wants to take karate. We live in Discovery Gardens and I am hoping to find a place relatively close for lessons this summer. Does anyone have any experience with a good place? We could use any suggestions for activities this summer, I think everyone we know is leaving for at least a month!
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Latest post on 06 May 2012 - 07:55
I delivered at Latifa one month ago. I only started going to Latifa for appointments after 36 weeks and saw 3 different doctors in 3 appointments. They all seemed competent but I did feel I had to ask questions and sort of drag information out of them. This was my third baby so I knew what to expect and this didn't really bother me. I never had a pelvic exam, I don't know if this is standard but again didn't bother me. The administration can be a little gruff and the waits for appointments at the hospital were usually about an hour. This all being said my delivery and stay at the hospital were really good. The doctors were very thorough and explained everything that was going on to me and my husband in detail (I almost had a c-section). The midwife that delivered the baby was fantastic, she was with me the entire time and if it weren't for her I'm sure I would have had a c-section. I stayed in a shared room but had it to myself most of the time. I can see it getting a little crowded and noisy if it was full (especially during visiting hours with kids running around and men in and out of the room). It might be worth it to request a private room, I think it's 2000dhs more per night. The nurses were good with the baby and quick to respond to my calls, etc. I did feel like we were really left alone (which I prefer) unless I needed anything. I did find it strange that no one checked on me other than two temperature checks. I delivered my first two babies in Canada and felt like I was constantly being poked and prodded by different nurses. All in all, I had a good experience at Latifa. It's a no frills experience but the hospital is clean and the care is good. All said and done it cost us 5000dhs for antenatal care and just shy of 10000dhs for NVD. If you are having twins I would definitely choose Latifa, they are best equipped to handle high risk pregnancies and their NICU is the best. Without even considering the expense, Latifa would be my first choice. If you do a search on here you'll see lots of women recommending registering with Latifa even if you aren't planning on delivering there, just in case. Good luck with your pregnancy, I hope everything goes smoothly for you!
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Latest post on 11 April 2012 - 00:09
CoffeeGal, I am glad you are home and are enjoying being a mom! We'll definately have to catch up soon. Things are very hectic around here but hopefully we'll get some sort of routine worked out soon. I'm so happy DH is off work to help out - I don't know exactly how I'll manage once he goes back to work. Our apartment looks like a bomb hit and I must say I'm not being the best mom to the older two. Meal times are a real challenge! I'm just trying to prioritize and not worry too much about the cleaning, etc at this point. Baby is so good though - I love having a baby girl, she is so sweet and snuggly! I can't wait to meet your little guy!!
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Latest post on 11 April 2012 - 00:03
I had the same thing happen to me. I miscarried at 6 weeks and had a D&C. I got pregnant again within 4 weeks! I had to do the blood tests Tiptoptoni referred to and everything worked out. I know what you mean about being scared and not getting too excited about the pregnancy. I don't think I truly got excited until baby was in my arms! Good luck!!!
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Latest post on 07 April 2012 - 09:50
My 17 month old has gone through these phases. I've always related it to teething. He's been slow getting his teeth and have cause a lot of grief. I also think as they get older and more aware of their surroundings they like to check and make sure you are still around :) Good luck. I know it's frustrating but it won't last forever :)
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Latest post on 06 April 2012 - 12:24
We welcomed our beautiful baby girl into the world April 4 at 2:20 am! So excited to have a girl finally with two older boys already. We arrived home yesterday from the hospital and am wondering already how I will manage with three. Things are a little crazy! Having some issues BFing but otherwise everyone is healthy and happy! I am having a quiet moment while two are napping... gotta go and relax! Good luck to the rest of the April mommies!
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Latest post on 19 March 2012 - 07:28
Good morning April mommies-to-be! We're all getting so close now. I am feeling huge and uncomfortable but am trying to enjoy these last couple of weeks before baby arrives. CoffeeGal, I am so sorry you're not feeling well! Maybe it's your body's way of telling you to get lots of sleep and relaxation before the baby comes and you forget what that is!! Take care and let me know if you need anything... How's everyone else doing? I wonder who will be the first to give birth? Keep us up-dated:)
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Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 10:59
I bought a small tomato plant from the Garden Centre last week for my balcony. I am not a gardener but thought it would be nice to grow my own tomatoes. The plant is a little sad looking... Do I need to put it in a bigger pot? It seems a little confined. How much water do they like? I get the morning sun on my balcony and I've been giving it a little water every night. TIA for any advice!
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Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 17:09
I'm 35+ weeks and baby has just turned breech!! He/she (don't know which) has been head down for ages but at last appointment the scan showed the baby had turned. The doctor says there is still enough room for it to turn around but I am worried too. I don't mind the c-section so much but I have two little ones at home and can't imagine them allowing me the time to recover. I had a c-section with my first and the recovery wasn't too bad but it's a different story when I have a 17 month old at home too. I am sleeping on my left side to encourage the baby to turn that way and also trying all the other tricks to encourage the baby to turn. I have another appointment next week so we'll see what the doctor says. Good luck jojobaaklini! If you end up with a c-section I think you will be surprised at how fast the recovery time is. Take care everyone!!
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Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 10:50
40+1 with a boy.
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Latest post on 28 February 2012 - 09:36
Thanks everyone for the generous offers! I was out all day yesterday so I apologize for the delay in getting back to some of you - I really do appreciate everyone's kindness! Busy Mum and ecossedl, we would love to get together for a play date! Please send me an email cherylabear AT gmail do com and we'll arrange something. Marroosh - we live in Contemporary Cluster street 6. I'll send you an email shortly! Thanks. Hi CoffeeGal! I'll send you an sms. How are you doing? Was worrying about you as I haven't heard back from you for a couple of weeks. I'm glad to see your name on here!
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Latest post on 26 February 2012 - 15:50
Thanks everyone! I will try the fairy godmothers!
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Latest post on 26 February 2012 - 12:48
The baby is due April 9 but doctor figures it might be a few days early ( I don't know how they can tell at this point!) and I live in Discovery Gardens. Nscm7859, that is a very kind offer! Do you have children? I would happily meet with you at perhaps a coffee morning and go from there... <em>edited by CABear on 28/02/2012</em>
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Latest post on 26 February 2012 - 11:54
Explorer and Howdra agencies both provide full-time live-in maids for 1-3 months for 3500dhs/month.
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Latest post on 25 February 2012 - 08:47
Thanks GreenQueen, he seems much better today and no coughing last night. I think I might invest in a humidifier anyway - just in case. Thanks everyone for your responses and I hope everyone's LO's are feeling better!
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Latest post on 24 February 2012 - 10:40
DS seemed to have a miraculous recovery the day after I posted this, even later that night he was sleeping soundly. He's continued to have a runny nose but I haven't been too worried about it. So... last night I woke up to him coughing in the middle of the night with an awful "barking" cough, I gave him some hot water and a little honey and he settled quickly. He seems happy enough today except his runny nose is worse. Should I take him to a doctor? I don't know where to take him - we don't have a regular doctor and our medical is in the process of being switched so I don't have insurance until Sunday. With it being a Friday, is my only option a hospital? My gut feeling is it's not bad enough to worry too much about but after reading some of the posts here, I would hate to leave it and have it turn for the worse. TIA for any advice. I hope everyone's LO's are recovering quickly!
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Latest post on 17 February 2012 - 15:33
For others that are interested, I was just doing some research on line and found the next baby wearing work shop is on March 11 at Organic Cafe, Dubai Mall 9:30 am - 11:30.
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Latest post on 17 February 2012 - 14:05
Sorry if this has been covered - I am due in April with my third child and am looking for recommendations for baby carriers or baby slings that are good for newborns/small babies. I have a baby bjorn which I can use as the baby gets older but I'm hoping to find something that I can use right away. I am anticipating needing something as I have a 15 month old and a 4 year old and I know how busy I am already! I read about a baby wearing workshop at Organic Shop in Dubai Mall, does anyone know if there are more of these planned? TIA
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Latest post on 17 February 2012 - 13:59
I must admit, I have been having the same worries! This is my third baby and my last delivery was quite fast - what if I go into labour during peak traffic hours? How long will it take to get to the hospital? I can't imagine being trapped in the car for an hour or so with contractions, etc. I have thought about an ambulance but I had a friend who tried to call for one and they told her to take a taxi! I know it will all work out okay in the end but I can't help worrying!
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Latest post on 15 February 2012 - 20:46
Thanks Plumie, he seems to be coughing mostly at night (a little during the day too) and has a runny nose but just clear runny liquid. He's been coughing for the past 2 nights. Seems happy during the day and has regular amount of energy. I'm guessing it's just a cold. I'll see how he is tomorrow and will try the Prospan tomorrow night if it's still bad. I worry he's not getting enough sleep with all the coughing. Poor little guy!
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Latest post on 07 February 2012 - 09:53
My son is 15 months old and doesn't have any real words. He says "mama" and "dada" and babbles a lot, but no real words that I can understand. I haven't been worried at all about this as my older son was the same - he didn't really start talking until closer to 2 or 2 1/2. (He is 4 now and speaks well with full vocabulary). I would try not to worry! It's normal!!:)
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Latest post on 24 January 2012 - 18:49
I would check into reflux. My youngest son was like this in his car seat and stroller until I started him on solids. A little rice cereal and he was like a different baby!
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Latest post on 18 January 2012 - 10:30
Can I ask what the initial cost is to get set up for washable nappies? And how do I go about ordering them?
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Latest post on 18 January 2012 - 10:24
These are really great ideas, thank you. I will try to put myself out there a bit more and see what happens!
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Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 16:11
Susandiaz, I found the earlier thread - thank you! I'm just not sure what we are going to do yet. DH doesn't seem too concerned about it, but of course I feel like I can't relax until we get this sorted . . . time's ticking!
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Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:44
Yes, I'm starting to think this might be the best option. Unfortunately, that would mean he wouldn't be at the hospital with me. Although, I'm delivering at Al Wasl and don't think he'll be allowed in the room for most of the birth anyway.
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Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:33
We have some friends here but none that could really help us out. We've only been in Dubai 7 months so haven't developed the sort of friendships where I could ask for this sort of help. Most of them are working or are busy with their own families. I will hopefully be delivering naturally, have had one c-section and one VBAC. So hopefully I won't be in the hospital for long, but who knows? I'd like to feel prepared for any situation!
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Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:11
I am due with my third in April and am stressing about what to do with my other kids while I am giving birth to number 3! I don't think any of my family will be coming to help and I can't trust that DH will be able to get the time off work - so I don't know what to do. We are considering a temporary, full-time nanny, does anyone know if this is possible? I don't think we want to hire anyone permanently but it would be nice to have the help for 2-3 months. Live-out would also be preferable as we don't have much space. Any suggestions?? Can I rent a mother in law?;)
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Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 10:28
Hi Ginnee, I don't have any advice to offer but if I can help in any way with your girls, let me know. Perhaps we could meet at a park and see how everyone gets along! I have 2 boys, 4 and 1. You were kind enough to offer to meet up with me when I was feeling pretty low, I never took you up on it, but the offer meant a lot. I have lots of free time and I find that sometimes just some adult conversation is really helpful!! cherylabear at gmail dot com.
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Latest post on 31 December 2011 - 08:05
Wow! I am overwhelmed by the support on here! Thank you all so much! clare1976, can I ask how long it takes to drive to say MOE from Mirdif? I've seen loads of cheaper accommodation there so maybe it's an option for us. coffeegal, I will for sure call you next week! I have often wished I had called last time but then I lost your number. Would love to meet up with you. Happy New Year to all of you!!
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Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 20:13
Nosey Norah, I got the email address if you want to remove it now. Thanks so much, we'll give it a try. I think Dubai is a pretty interesting place to live. Yes, it's expensive but comparable to where I'm from in Canada. Our perception in Canada was that Dubai is a world class city with amazing hotels and a huge tourism industry. We thought the food would be cutting edge and exciting. We are open to living in other places if the offer is right. I would be uneasy moving to a new city now until after the baby is born.
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Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 17:24
Unfortunately, our lease isn't up until July. My DH arrived last March and lived in accommodation provided by his company until June, when I arrived with the children. The lease is for 13 months, so we are here for a while yet. School is definately a concern. We can afford one child and I think by the time the other two are ready, unless things have drastically changed for us here, we'll have to move back to Canada anyway. We have believed that there is room for advancement at DH's current company. He will be up for salary review in another couple of months. However, he is really finding it difficult working the long hours in a position he is miserable at. I also originally planned on working once the kids were settled. This is still an option but obviously not for a while yet. I spoke with husband today and have planned a serious sit down about all of this. Hopefully we can make some decisions! Spongemonkey, I hear what you are saying... I just meant that my husband is willing to work in other areas of F&B. For instance, we met a fellow involved in setting up franchises, seemed like an interesting job. But perhaps it's not the right place for us, I agree about the sustainability.....
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Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 14:17
I wanted to add that my husband isn't necessarily only looking for a chef position. He is fully qualified in all restaurant positions and is willing to try almost anything F&B related. (as long as he can believes in the business). We take food pretty seriously in our home and my husband especially has a huge passion for food, sustainability, etc.
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Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 13:42
Thanks everyone. I don't think we are ready to leave quite yet but with baby on the way in April, we have to decide fairly quickly. Of course we can always travel with the baby, I won't be able to travel after 8(?) months pregnant. rock7 I would love your email address. Any new contacts are helpful and my husband is very good at networking, etc. Purple, I think I am okay for newborn clothes- I have two friends saving stuff for me. I don't know if it's a boy or girl but they have one of each so I should be covered! Thanks for the suggestions for accommodation. I will look more seriously as we get closer to our lease being up. Glenfiddich, this is most worst fear! We are pretty careful (I am in charge of budget) and I have at least 1 very good family friend who wouldn't let us starve but I would hate for it to come to this!! I think I will sit down with DH tonight and have a serious chat about our options.
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Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 12:44
Have you looked at Pandora bracelets? These too have removable charms. I'm not sure if you can buy charms from all over the world though. I know Dubai has some charms.
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Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 12:01
Thanks edna.welthorpe for your kind words. I know that Canada is a pretty great place but we really wanted a change and a fresh start. It's reassuring to know we aren't on our own. Seems like everyone we meet just has so much more than we do. I know life isn't all about material things but it would make life easier and give me some peace of mind if we could afford to set up a nursery for the new baby and not have to worry about money all the time. Muesli Bar, thank you, I need to feel that I am helping our situation somehow. We are living in Discovery Gardens. We have a huge 2 bedroom apartment which isn't so much the problem. We would love to feel a part of a community of some sort. It would be nice to be close to a playground that isn't full of cigarette butts and other garbage, perhaps have access to a swimming pool? Our budget right now is about 75k. We are paying in 12 cheques right now which also makes it manageable. Yes, I will be giving birth at Al Wasl. My DH has tried to speak to the management but to no avail. They seem quite unreasonable and are blind to what a lot of the problems are there. I am also from F&B and can recognize some of the problems but they are not willing to pay good staff and expect my husband to do everything with very little support. My DH and I have been talking about our situation and just don't see a way out. Seems chefs don't get paid very much, it's double what we would make at home but not enough to support our family.
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Latest post on 28 December 2011 - 12:38
I've also been using gaviscon, it works really well. I actually had terrible heart burn for days, took gaviscon once and haven't had to use it again. No more heart burn:)
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Latest post on 26 December 2011 - 12:36
I don't have a dryer... My freezer is pretty empty though, perhaps I'll try putting some stuff in there. I've been running clothes, etc through hot water wash, I wonder if this will be enough. I'd like to just buy new mattresses for my boys but I don't want to do it too soon as I don't want the new ones to get infested. Anyhow, thanks for your advice, off I go to continue cleaning.:(
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Latest post on 26 December 2011 - 11:00
I just called National Pest Control and she suggested I should try treating the problem on my own before trying chemical treatment b/c of pregnancy. Has anyone dealt with this before? She also said I should wash all clothing, bedding, etc. at home as a lot of laundry companies have BB problems! Can anyone recommend somewhere I can take duvets and other large items that I can't wash at home? What a NIGHTMARE! I don't know if I'll ever sleep again!
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Latest post on 26 December 2011 - 10:38
I have just found bed bugs in my sons' room this morning!! I am beside myself!! I have just pulled everything out of their room, am washing all the bedding and have thrown some things in the garbage. I just did a search on this forum and the internet and will call pest control. I am worried though as I am 6 months pregnant and don't know if it's safe to use pest control and if I trust them to know for sure. Any advice? This is such a terrible problem - we are not a dirty family but I worry maybe it's in our apartment building, can they travel from apartment to apartment?
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Latest post on 18 December 2011 - 09:30
I am also interested in Nappycino morning if anything gets organized. Baby #3 due in April - wish I had started cloth with baby #1!
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Latest post on 26 November 2011 - 12:40
I had 20 week scan this week too. As for whether it's a boy or girl, I am going to keep it a surprise. I have 2 boys already so a little girl would be nice but I am comfortable with boys already so in many ways a boy would be easier! Of course, it doesn't matter to me either way as long as it's healthy!! I also had my gestational diabetes test this week. I thought it seemed a little early but my doctor said I could do it any time now. ?? We're celebrating my oldest son's 4th birthday today. I can't believe how fast they grow!!
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Latest post on 06 November 2011 - 11:49
I would like to go to one of the parks tonight - Safa, Creek or Zabeel? I've never been and my DH works until 5pm. I'm wondering what happens after dark at the parks? I have two small children, is there anything for them to do? Which park is best?
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Latest post on 29 October 2011 - 19:01
I was born and raised in Vancouver. It is a beautiful city but can also be a lonely city. It is easy to get lost in the crowd. Standard of living is good but it is expensive. We find the prices similar to Dubai as far as rent, etc. goes. The economy is suffering in BC currently so we found it depressing - no one is spending money, lots of complaining, etc. Education is good. The climate is comfortable - cold by Dubai standards, often rainy and grey, especially in the winter. It rarely snows, although it seems like it has more in the last few years, usually a couple of snow falls a year. The summer is beautiful, although this year was apparently very cold and quite rainy. One of the main differences I have noticed to Dubai is how polite Canadians are, everyone is treated equally (it's a very PC country). Vancouver is a big city with lots to do, especially outdoors. I, personally, wouldn't want to move back there without securing a really good job in advance. It's difficult to make money there!
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Latest post on 27 October 2011 - 20:36
Thanks everyone! I think I'll have a look at the M&P one for starters.
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Latest post on 25 October 2011 - 19:46
There is a Mamas & Papas Aria Twin on dubizzle at the moment - does anyone know anything about this stroller?
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Latest post on 25 October 2011 - 11:07
The pumpkins at Geant are 30AED a kg!!
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Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 15:01
I have an almost 4 year old son spending his first Halloween in Dubai and is dying to go trick or treating! We live in Discovery Gardens and don't think anything will be going on here. Where can I take him?
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Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 11:28
I had my second baby VBAC with no problems. My two boys are 3 years apart. Good luck!