Cleo4e | ExpatWoman.com
 

Cleo4e

Cleo4e
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Latest post on 21 August 2013 - 06:35
I did Kumon as a child in Montreal (I used to hate it at the time) but it's been pretty helpful lol. It's a shame it's not offered in Dubai- would have liked to get my LO into it :(
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 21 August 2013 - 06:32
that sucks! they'd do so well here!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 19 August 2013 - 06:37
Do check out Dawn Venturas! She is AMA-ZING! https://www.facebook.com/coach.DV?fref=ts She's fully booked :( , thank u for replying Awwww what a shame :( I would def get on her waiting list for next session
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 19 August 2013 - 05:28
Following!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 19 August 2013 - 05:27
I buy Kale from Waitrose On Al-Thanya - usually good quality and fresh :)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 19 August 2013 - 05:26
Do check out Dawn Venturas! She is AMA-ZING! https://www.facebook.com/coach.DV?fref=ts
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 19 August 2013 - 05:25
I buy my Lulu's when i'm home in Montreal for the summer. It's also all I can wear postpartum lol
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 19 August 2013 - 05:20
Just to second what Ummzarinah wrote, Dr Elsa gets cancellations all the time, so you may not have to actually wait that long to get on her list. I'd say- call daily even and see if theres been a cancellation for that day- and if not ask them to make a note to call you if there is. She was following me until 26 weeks then I left for Canada and I'm a huge fan of hers!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 August 2013 - 06:32
Cleo, I never had a labour at all with my first baby, he was a scheduled c-section due to position. I never even had a braxton hicks (with either baby)! At about 5am the day after my due date I felt twinges which were like period cramps, and went back to sleep. They got stronger during the day but it wasn't until afternoon that I was sure they weren't just braxton hicks. They were not debilitating at all, really I would say the day felt like the first day of a bad period until around 5pm then at that point I was definitely feeling something more, but I was still able to talk through them. I went to the hospital at around 8pm (after I put my son to bed) by that point I was struggling to talk during the peak of each contraction (for around 20 seconds I guess) but absolutely fine the rest of the time. By the time they examined me I was 7 cm/fully effaced and I went straight to he delivery suite. I didn't really have a lot of pain until I was around 9cm (obviously there was pain but not scary pain, I was sitting on the bed watching TV in between, actually it was really boring, if I had lived closer to the hospital I tink I would have stayed at home longer, once you are in the hospital you have no distractions and nothing else to do but sit there or pace around an ugly hospital room) at 9cm the OBGYN broke my waters, in retrospect I wish she hadn't, things got a lot more intense after that and I think it would have taken slightly longer but been less painful maybe if she had left things as they were, I can't help but wonder if she was getting tired and just wanted to hurry things along a bit (she technically wasn't actually on duty but came in as a favour to me). At 9cm my body actually started pushing, as in I wasn't trying to push but I could feel that I was probably actually pushing with each contraction, I would say I had about an hour of things being pretty full-on until I was fully dilated and got the green light to actually try and push, from that point apparently I pushed for 5 contractions and baby was out (so that's really only properly pushing for less than 10 minutes although I had no real concept of time). So all went very smoothly and it was technically an "easy" birth although I don't think there is really such a thing is there :). Everybody's labour is different though, some people have more pain and for some the pushing phase is longer. I do think it probably helped that I was active in the early stages (I took my son to the mall and even did a supermarket shop) and that because I didn't have an epidural I was able to be pushing in the kneeling position rather than on my back. I felt very calm/in control during my labour and honestly I would have loved it if I could have just been completely by myself at home in many ways (although I'm far too over-cautious to ever actually have a home-birth. I did try the gas and air but I didn't really like how spaced out it made me feel and I just couldn't really focus with the mask on so I didn't end up using it. I think you have to give yourself a break though, if I had felt the pain was too much I would totally have had an epidural, I just wasn't keen on an instrumental birth or emergency c-section which obviously result in more pain afterwards so I figured as long as I could cope then I wouldn't bother with one. One thing I would do differently if I could go back would be to have a doula present, my husband was great and my Dr was great but the nurses were not that helpful and I can see how a doula would actually have been really good and keeping them on their toes and suggesting ways to make me more comfortable. HTH xxx Thanks so much for sharing! I never got to experience labour either so this time around I'm a little paranoid thinking "how will I know" and "what will it feel like". Your labour and delivery sounds fantastic and I can only hope mine goes just as smoothly. I hope first of all- that i go into labour naturally- then i hope to stay home for as long as possible to labour at home. I remember when i was induced with my first, i had an epidural and couldn't feel myself push. My biggest fear is not knowing how to push or feeling the urge to push hence why id like to stay away from an epidural this time around.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 15 August 2013 - 22:46
Hi girls, I will be 33 weeks on saturday and as of 30 weeks my cervix was already soft but not dilated. I'm having a lot of braxton hicks lately and although they are not intense, they are becoming more frequent. I'm happy this is happening because i didn't go through any of this with my first and had an induced labour resulting in a c-section. But, for this to happen this early- should I be worried? Are these signs that I could deliver before my due date. I have an appointment with my OB next week to check for dilation, but I just wanted to know if anyone else has gone through this and how soon after did you go into labour?
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 15 August 2013 - 22:42
yes but not in Dubai, I had a VBAC in Doha last year. My Dr said it was best not to induce as this increases the risk of rupture, her htoughts were that labour should happen spontaneously or not at all. If I had gone longer than 10 days past my due date without going into labour then the plan would have been scheduled c-section. I actually did my own research and to me it looked like the risk of induction was really only when the induction was after your due date. There did not seem to be an increased risk if induced early or with spontaneous labour up to 10 days after due date but maybe do your own research on that. She also told me that they would be more conservative in terms of monitoring and progression of labour. I basically stayed at home and kept moving as long as possible so that I would not be sitting around at the hospital in the early stages. I chose not to have an epidural so that I could have freedom of position and my Dr was actually pretty good at agreeing not to do continous monitoring although I was monitored probably more than I regular birth Kiwi, I'm planning a VBAC here in Canada with #2. I was induced with my first and never actually went through 'labour' and didn't feel a thing with an epidural- no contractions, no pushing.. nothing. I'm planning on doing it drug free this time (wish me luck). I just wanted to know, how was your labour experience? Was it long? Did you have any trouble with the pushing phase? And when did you decide it was time to go to the hospital? Im just afraid of unnecessary interventions this time around and want to do what I can to avoid another 'unecesarian'
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 15 August 2013 - 22:36
Are you required or expected to also provide an accommodation allowance? we pay ours a monthly salary which does in fact cover her rent/accomodation.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 13 August 2013 - 22:22
Thanks guys for all of your advice. Kiwispers, I understand what you mean and quite frankly I don't like the idea of her being 'loaned' out either, my MIL doesn't compensate her my husband does and pays her a full and complete salary which is almost triple what many maids make for hardly working. I don't think having her go over there for a few hours for a day is a big deal. We knew it had to have this arrangement while I was in Canada for my delivery and i did tell her so before i left that it was possible that she gets called to go there . Also having her go to my MIL's for a day or two is also one way my husband feels we can ensure she isn't working in other homes while we're not there. Obviously when I'm back in Dubai, loaning her out would be out of the question. I am very new and inexperienced at this so I appreciate everyone's feedback, i'd like to get back to Dubai and see how she is with me around and my two kids before I make any concrete moves about having her visa cancelled :(
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 07 August 2013 - 18:37
I'm 31 weeks right now and I get the same kinds of pains..albeit not that strong. It turns out my cervix is not dilated but very soft...so I wouldn't take any chances and get an appointment asap :)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 07 August 2013 - 17:36
My plan is not to bring my 2 1/2 year old to the hospital at all. I just know how his temperament can be, and he's not going to take well at all to me holding a new baby and especially if I'm not going home with him right then and there.He's a very possessive and jelous little boy when it comes to me and other babies and children. I will be leaving him with his grandmother who he adores while me and my husband (or sister- if hubby doesn't make it in time) deliver #2. I think for us it will just work out better if my son sees me with the new baby at home, in an environment where he's comfortable around many people who he loves and trusts. This is just what will work out for us, however all children are different and maybe your little one will do just fine at the hospital with you.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 07 August 2013 - 17:29
At 34 weeks, just to be safe I would check with my dr to make sure you're not in preterm labour.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 06 August 2013 - 18:35
I'm so happy to hear such amazing things about DR Elsa. I wish I could have stayed in DXB and had my delivery with her, but it just wasn't the ideal situation with our toddler and me needing family for post delivery. If I do decide to go for a #3, it will definitely be with her! 32 weeks now- and feeling anxious to get this baby out lol
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 22 July 2013 - 04:02
So thats why I havent seen you in Pilates last few weeks Cleo. I know :( I do miss going, but delivering here just seemed like the right thing to do because my family is here and the extra helping hands with my toddler is always welcome! lol
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 20 July 2013 - 22:44
I apologize for the LONG post but here is what we did: WE did Rome and Tuscany/Florence in October and my husband and I had done rome and venice 4 yrs ago on our 1st year anniversary. This time though I was travelling with my 18 month old son and all I can say is that we hired a driving tour guide. It was THE BEST decision we took! We arrived in Rome, and we walked everywhere, we had a very central location for hotel - we were only staying in rome for a night (initially) and booked more of a bed and breakfast type place called Cairolli. It was really no frills but for one night all we needed was a good clean room, bed, bathroom and a breakfast. The staff at Cairolli were fantastic making all the accommodations necessary for our son: had a cot set up for him- washed our bottles- gave us fresh milk before we left and the breakfast was scrumptious. It's not a terribly busy hotel as it can only accommodate about 5 guests at a time, but it was nice and cosy. The elevator however was teeny tiny and could only fit 1 person at a time, and couldn't fit our pram, so we i had to send it up on it's own lol No big deal though. From the hotel, we walked to the Vatican. For this I highly suggest you get a tour guide who will have your tickets pre-booked, and you will get you ahead of the line ups. Travelling with a toddler + being pregnant and in the summer can be quite a feat, I find tour guides really are helpful especially with children. We have a contact of a fabulous private guide we hired, who actually worked in the vatican and had a lot of insight and extra tidbits about the sistine chapel and popes ect... with the tour guide we cabbed it to other sites, Palantino Gardens, Spanish Steps, the different Piazza's, Colosseum and did all these sites with the guide. If we needed to stop to feed the little guy we would. If you wanted to divide sightseeing in 2 1/2 days you could.. the guide was very accommodating and flexible. After Rome, we rented a car & carseat and drove to Tuscany- to unwind from the activity we did in Rome. We stayed in the countryside in a town called Fratta Santa Catarina at an inn called La Terre Dei Cavallieri. Again- soo accommodating to our son. The breakfast was all homemade from the owners wife, and fresh! The rooms had small kitchenettes where again I could wash bottles. My son could run around on the lawns- he really enjoyed this place because he had plenty of freedom. From Cortona we hired a tour guide who came to pick us up in his van- Equipped with a carseat (so impressive), and he drove us to tuscan villages: San Gimignano, Sienna, and Cortona. He was supposed to take us to Florence as well but he had prior clients. This again was fantastic. We didn't worry about transport, we saw Sienna and San Gimigano in 1 day. Had lunch all together, he would stop when we needed to stop and was so knowledgeable, we also have his contact. I can't say enough good things about this guide. You can read his reviews on trip advisor as well. The next time, we're in Tuscany though, we will try and stay at Casa San Gabriel https://www.facebook.com/CasaSanGabriel?fref=ts . I believe it's owned by british expats and is extremely kid friendly and they have Alpacas on their property and plenty of kid friendly activities. They were fully booked when we went :( Finally we drove to Florence and had a tour guide there, who again was accommodating and very knowledgeable. He was a young guy in his early 20's who was studying florentine history and a native of Florence. We loved his enthusiasm and his energy and his never ending patience with our son. The weather was particularly cold, and rainy and my son had had enough, so we had to cut the touring short but we saw the main sites and had plenty of information. All in all- we had a fantastic trip and it's all because we had tour guides- we didn't wait in line up's, we only had 5 days and we felt we saw so much and gained a wealth of information. Our pram is big but wasn't a huge problem. In venice it would be difficult but not impossible. If you need any additional information feel free to let me know!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 20 July 2013 - 19:57
Does anybody see Dr. Elsa at City?? I initially was seeing Dr Britt but as she won't be in town around my due date she had to refer me to a different doc. I asked for a referral for Dr. Elsa but I think it was easier for the nurses to put me with Dr. Ann as her schedule was more free. So I've been seeing Dr. Ann from about week 15 to 30. I finally was taken off of Dr. Elsa's waiting list and given an appointment at the end of this month but now I'm having second thoughts about switching doctors this late (I'll be 33 or 34 weeks when I see Dr. Elsa)> Dr Ann is fine, but I dont feel any connection to her really at all. She's pro VBAC in the sense that she didn't really protest when I told her I wanted a VBAC. I just want to make sure I have a doctor who's going to be on my side when I'm in labour, not one trying to push me towards another c-section and I've read soooo many things about Dr. Elsa being super pro VBAC. HI HUN! I'm back in Canada now because I planned to deliver here all along, but I was being followed by DR Elsa from week 5-28 and I loved her. I would suggest you keep your appointment and give her a shot. If I did choose to deliver with Dr. Elsa and stay in Dubai, she was extremely supportive of me trying for a VBAC. She listened, gave me her honest opinions and advice and said it to me like it was all while being very supportive of what I wanted. She told me what she would and would not do, but made it clear that safety and me and my baby would be priority. I highly recommend her even if you will be at 34 weeks, she's a lovely person and a fantastic DR!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 09 July 2013 - 20:42
Thank you so much guys!!!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 04 July 2013 - 19:21
My son was 18 months, i would only send him for 4 hours 3 times a week. Day 1 week 1- I stayed with him for 3 hours then took him home. Day 2 I stayed with him for 2 hours, and watched him outside on the CCTV cameras for an hour and he was hysterical- then I took him home. Day 3, I stayed with him an hour and sat outside for 2 hours listening to him cry and scream. The week after, I dropped him to his class, and stayed outside out of sight for the full 4 hours. I would just hear him cry and it would break my heart. The next day, I decided I couldn't listen to him cry so I dropped him to his class gave him a huge hug and told him to have a great day and I would see him soon and I left. When I came to pick him, he was fast asleep with the other kids. His teacher told me, he would cry every so often, but he was getting used to it slowly but surely. Day 3 of week 2 he cried less, and by week 3, he was settled! He would put up a fuss at drop off, but after I left, he would be fine. When daddy would drop him off, we found that our son wouldn't cry at all. His teacher said that children are generally more attached to mom then dad so they cry more when mummy drops them. I have to commend the staff at my sons nursery, they really really put in extra effort with him to make him adjust and feel comfortable. My son is now 2 1/2 and he loves nursery and runs right in and sometimes doesn't even want to come out! He's developed so much and has learned so much! I feel it was the best thing we did for him. Its hard as parents, but children are resilient and they adjust very well very quickly!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 03 July 2013 - 07:49
Sensasia at Emirates Golf course!- they're massages were heavenly, but done in side lying position :)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 July 2013 - 21:01
This maid is probably moonlighting, but the reason she can appear at short notice is that wherever she is doing the illegal work, they too will understand that she may have to disappear at short notice. If she is only doing around 2 hours work then she is free for 22 hours. Anyway, you can have your DH inform her that she should not be causing you stress at this time by messaging you, it was a bad move on her count. As per law, yes, your maid can work in relatives homes. Your maid is afraid of being caught? Choke, splutter.....lol edited by CrashingWaves on 01/07/2013 In the 2 years I've known her, she's never been dishonest with us ( she could have been on several occasions) and has always been upfront and her honesty was one of the main reasons why we hired her. Unless and and until she causes us a reason to doubt her, I do trust her and take her word. Of course, we do our due diligence and take all necessary precautions, but I really do feel that she understands the repercussions of doing anything illegal- which is why she messaged me when my husband sent her to the in laws. She's the sole provider of a family of 7 and she values her work too much to risk loosing her job. We've decided to enroll her in some cooking classes, first aid courses, and my husband is continuing to send her to the in-laws just to be extra cautious about moonlight work. That's the best we can do for now, until I get back to dubai with the babies.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 28 June 2013 - 16:12
Thanks guys! We don't think she has a part time job elsewhere, just because, my husband has called her in to come work at different hours on random days with very short notice and she's been at my home within 30 mins of us calling her. She lives 30 mins away from us and thats exactly how long it takes for her to get to our place. If she had other part time work there would be delays or excuses right? He specifically does that to make sure she doesn't get an opportunity to work elsewhere. Or am I just being naive and too trusting? We did thoroughly explain to her the implications of illegal part time work elsewhere and what would happen to her if she were to be caught and we don't feel she would risk that. She's the sole earner in a family of 7 and she has too much at stake to be deported back. When she messaged me about working at my in laws, she did say to me that she was afraid of being caught because it was illegal for her to work in different household. In the 2 years I've known her, she's been very honest and upfront and yes absolutely she did tell me that she did not like working at my in-laws so I'm sure she's getting used to having a good pay and little work. I did acknowledge her feelings , and told her I understood and that yes the way they speak and run their household is not like mine, but since she has so little to do in my home, this is a nice way to help out their maid who needs some rest. In any case, you're all right, for her to be working there does put me more at ease about her not having the chance to find part time work. Id rather she be kept busy than not. I just wanted to make sure we weren't forcing her to do something illegal edited by Cleo4e on 28/06/2013 <em>edited by Cleo4e on 28/06/2013</em>
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 17:35
Hi ladies, I hope you are all well and surviving these summer temperatures (I'm sure it will only get worse!). Cleo - when is your new due date? Aish - how are you holding up? How was your appointment with Latifa? I'm all registered and have my appointment with them on the 7th of July, in parallel still seeing my preferred OBGYN. I'm ok with the double appointments as that means more ultrasounds. :) I'm just past the 22-week mark and already walking around with what looks and feels like a basketball underneath my shirt - it's hard to imagine that I'll get double the size by the end of it. Yikes! Ladies - are most of you escaping for the summer or planning to stay around Dubai? Dx I wish, I had just a basketball..mine is more like a watermelon at 25 weeks lol I don't walk anymore, i wobble and I still have to double this size in the coming weeks *sigh* New due date is October 6th (was October 13th), but I'll be term by end of september. I don't make a good preggo, I just want this phase to be over with lol
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 17:16
Painstaking instruction and demonstaration because only my way is good enough in my house. Agreed!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 18 June 2013 - 23:06
We also have a live out maid who lives in satwa but works only for us, and she is on our sponsorship. We don't know of this being illegal in any way?
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 18 June 2013 - 22:57
I just flew a 14 hour flight to Canada from Dubai (1 hr stopover in Doha). As long as your doctor allows you to fly- and provides you a "Fit to Fly" note you should be fine. Some airlines have their own policies and will not take you regardless of the note, so you need to check with the airline. I look bigger than I am and even though I am ok to fly (by the airlines policies) they still asked to see a note. Good thing I had one on me just in case. advice: wear compression stockings- drink plenty - and walk plenty (the constant urge to pee, made me get up and walk every 30 mins). My dr also made me take two shots of an an anticoagulant just because i had such a long flight.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 18 June 2013 - 22:49
Hi girls!! Just writing in to say hi and see how everyone was doing! I'm back home in canada for the summer, until the delivery date! My OB here changed my due date from the date I was told by my OB in Dubai. Apparently the little guy is measuring a week ahead of schedule. That's fine by me, the sooner I have this baby- the sooner I get to come back to Dubai and hopefully have post baby meet ups and play dates :) I'm feeling ok, just getting bigger by the second. I'm attempting a vbac this time around, but I'm scared about the baby measuring big already- I want to be able to push this bub out lol
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 24 May 2013 - 18:13
I did this last summer with my toddler (dubai to toronto, 14 hours)- it was a nightmare. The staff was really great about giving my son extra snacks and extra food, but there was no way I could manage one tray let alone two so I had packed plenty of extra food and snacks for him and myself. Also to my understanding- they only have baby purees, but if your child is off of purees they would just get a regular tray?
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 24 May 2013 - 14:12
I finally got in touch with his paediatrician, and he told me to also stop and observe him and to come and see him first thing Sunday if he is feeling better. If i still feel concerned by tomorrow morning I can bring him into the er. I'm happy I didn't give him his morning dose, he finally had a proper meal for lunch and drank water which is a good sign. No fever and he seems to slowly be getting back to his old self. Lets hope it lasts!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 24 May 2013 - 13:27
My paediatrician gave me wonderful advice and I still follow it with my 2 1/2 year old. Kids will go through phases where you will think they're on a starvation diet. If they are a healthy weight, 3-4 bites at mealtime is sufficient (according to my dr). When children are hungry they WILL eat and will never allow themselves to starve. He also told me never force feed. Offer the meal, if he eats great- if not, let it be. But no in between snacking and that includes milk & juices, because they fill you up. I've used this advice on numerous occasions and my son will go through his phases (foods he loved- will no longer touch- go through days without eating anything...) but he always comes around. I just try to make sure that whatever little he does eat is always quality food. Junk food is just not a part of my household so be it fruit/vegg/protein/healthy fats- even if my son takes 2 bites, its 2 bites of quality. If your son is healthy otherwise, I wouldn't stress about it too much, he'll come around :)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 21 May 2013 - 09:57
Also, ladies would like to ask if anyone has experienced fatigue, tenderness, very slight nausea every now and then, running to the loo all the time as well as hunger? I just reached 18 weeks today and since yesterday have been feeling like maybe my little man is having a growth spurt as it all seems to feel like the first trimester again! The bump definitely feels like its expanding, which i guess is to be expected but never thought all the yukky stuff comes back!?!? Yes, yes and yes! I've been feeling the yukkiness on and off as well :(
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 21 May 2013 - 09:54
Cleo I do have a recommendation for a chiropractor...I saw Dr Pamela from "Chiropractic Dubai" all the way through my second pregnancy and considering going back to her as I am starting to get back and headaches with this pregnancy. Here is their website http://www.chiropracticdubai.com/ She specializes in pregnant women and babies...I loved her! :) Yay!!! Thank you soo much!! I'm going to make an appt straight away!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 18 May 2013 - 13:58
They seriously need to let go and move on, if they gave her up. I had to give up my cat so I understand the need to want to check up but enough is enough. I trusted the new owners completely. I only called once to ask them if THEY needed any help or advice with my old cat and when they politely told me all was under control I breathed a sigh of relief that she was with a good family and I moved on. Cut off all ties and tell them because this is now bordering on harasment.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 14:05
I saw Dr Bidwi at Top Modern Dental Clinic in the Marina a few weeks after I moved to dubai for an impacted wisdom tooth removal. I was a huge scaredy cat, to say the least and he was phenomenal. I was on antibiotics and pain killers first. I walked into the clinic, and I was out of there within 10 mins. My husband hadn't even left the parking lot and I called him to tell him I was done. He got the tooth out within 5 mins, didn't need to break it and then stitched me up. I had minimal swelling and after 3 days I was pretty much back to normal. I saw him for a follow up as well. I can't remember how much I paid, but I don't think it was too bad.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 13:59
Here are different examples of things that I offer my son in the mornings. (of course not all in one morning). I figure... even if he takes 1 bite (which he sometimes does) at least it will be 1 bite of quality nutrition. -1 hard boiled egg (he always eats this if nothing else) - a green smoothie (kale or spinach, mixed berries or any other fruity combinations, organic milk and chia seeds all blended) - whole grain waffles or toast with either coconut oil spread, peanut butter, or a fruit puree. - Berry Company Juice or Milk or water (he usually tells me what he wants) - Multigrain cereal that I get from organic shop- I'll always sprinkle some flax seed in there as well and maybe add some blueberries or strawberries. - Quinoa apple porridge (quinoa, chopped apples, cinnamon, milk, some slivered almonds and a drizzle of honey) -whole wheat blueberry pancakes -scrambled eggs
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 13:39
I'm seeing Dr Elsa DeMenezes at City Hospital and I love her. She's fantastic .I heard she has a long waiting list for new patients- but sometimes spots definitely open up and you can get seen. At the end of the month I'm leaving to go back home for my delivery so I can tell you 1 spot will free up for you lol
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 13:36
My little guy goes to Blossoms Nursery in Umm Al Sheif. I enrolled him when he was 18 months just 3 days a week for 4 hours. Getting him to adjust was tough at first but the staff and his teacher really made an effort and he loves it now (he's now 2 1/2). He's come along so well and has learned so much, I couldn't be happier. I'll actually be kind of sad when he has to start big kids school.
Cleo4e
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 13:32
HI ladies! For the SPD Dr hasn't prescribed anything :( She basically told me just to keep my legs closed as much as I can, swing my legs over the tub while getting in and out, same with getting in and out bed and cars. I try, but I'm just bummed I got it so early on. I still have so much weight left to gain and still have to get so much bigger, I'm afraid of being paralyzed in a few weeks:( I haven't seen a chiro yet. Still doing some research on where to see a good pre-natal chiro in Dubai. I'm currently being seen at City Hospital- but I'm going back home to Canada for my delivery. I'm leaving 1st week of June and will be back sometime before the New Year. I have a great chiro back home who did wonders for me during my first pregnancy so will definitely be going back to see him. So let's see what happens. Fingers crossed it gets better *sigh*
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 11:35
We pay 2500 for live-out. 5 days 08.00-16.00 ****** ****...... How is any supposed to survive on that living out? I cannot believe anyone would pay this and think it's ok. Shocking, just shocking I really don't think it is up to you to judge. Our maid is very happy, her previous employer had her work 6 days of 10-12 hours, living out (excl. a commute of 3 hours a day) and paying far less then 2500. She works less then her contract says, usually only 3 days a week. She manages to save about 30% of her earnings. She eats at our house or takes food home, gets loads of stuff she sells, extras etc. and before anyone else starts, no, she is not having other jobs on the side. Agreed, this is the rate our live out maid , QUOTED to US in order for her to live comfortably and support her family back home. She is more than happy with this salary. She eats at our home 3 meals a day and gets food to take home. Whenever I do groceries, I take her along with me and ask her to pick out whatever she likes from food to toiletries. She gets brand new clothes from me as well - as well as cash bonus' here and there. She's a really great maid and on special occasions, holidays I treat her to mani-pedi's, facials, haircuts and massages anything to show her how much we appreciate her. She also said- she's less tired and overworked since she started working for my family and actually finds time to herself to relax and even go jogging! She gets her week ends off, to visit her sisters who also work in Dubai and she's extremely happy with her new accommodations as she told us about how 8 women were crammed in a single room in bunk beds in the accommodations her agency provided. I'm not trying to toot my own horn or anything- but if my maid was unhappy with anything or felt that she wasn't being paid enough- she would definitely make it known but her situation with us is far far better than the conditions she was subjected to work under at her old company.
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 11:25
Hi Ladies!! I was in the september group but decided to make a switch to October as my due date is october 13th, I'm just hoping i'll deliver by 38-39 weeks (wishful thinking much?) lol I'm 18 1/2 weeks, this pregnancy has been different than my first. I feel better than I did in my 1st trimester, but the nausea is not completely gone :( and for some reason the fatigue is hitting me now *sigh*. My bump looks massive!!!! A Lady in the elevator asked me yesterday if I was 8 months....ughh I was so embarrassed. I tend to carry really low, and i'm super short- so there isn't much room for baby to grow except down and outwards lol Trying to get some walking in, and some pre-natal pilates in as much as I can, but lately have pubic dysfunction pain. Has anyone else had this? I had this with my son before as well, but only after 37 weeks. I seem to have it now much much earlier and it's quite painful :( Thinking of seeing a chiropractor to get this sorted. I don't know how I'll make it to 9 months with this pain, along with the back aches :( I have no choice but to get into maternity clothes. I avoided it as much as I could- but now can't understand why i even tortured myself trying to squeeze into old clothes. I ordered mine online from Isabella Oliver and Blush and Bloom. No complaints and I can even see myself wearing them after I deliver while I try to get my baby pounds down! The quality is really great and stylish too!
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 11:24
2500 for live out- 10 am to 6pm 5 days. Then 10 am to 1 pm on saturdays. <em>edited by Cleo4e on 08/05/2013</em>
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 16:22
Organic Shop as well :)
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 09:52
For our live out maid we pay her a salary of over 2,500. This includes her rent, food, living expenses as well as her transport to and from our home. We also take care of her medical expenses, her ticket back home once a year, 1 day off during the week. We also have sponsored her visa so she is fully our responsibility. Please I need help urgently! Sorry- I didn't see this- apologize for the late reply. Our live out was working with an agency and she was our regular agency maid. When her contract was finished with her company- instead of renewing with them- we offered to hire her full time and sponsor her. So I didn't really have to do a lot of searching fortunately. I'm sorry I can't be of more help- but if you look under the classifieds add you can find postings from maids some of which don't mind being live out? I also know of a filipina salon worker who'se sister is in the filipines and is desperate to come to the Dubai for work. She's looking for a sponsor- and wouldn't mind being live out. (the two sisters would live together)
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 May 2013 - 13:51
Absolutely- I got some brilliant advice here and thanks to all the ladies! Today is my maids, 1st day after I posted and I'm still friendly with her, but definitely a lot more assertive. Similarly to Dubainewcomer, the idea of having a maid is very foreign to me. I've been here 2 years- but I don't come from a background in North America where maids are the norm so the idea of having one was very hard for me to digest. My husband on the other hand- grew up his whole life with maids and had little interaction with his mom until he was 8 yrs old. For him- this is normal and ' no big deal'. Because of some physical limitations due to my pregnancy- I feel like I just can't cope by myself anymore and was forced to hire one. I'm happy with her overall. I know a lot of women are cynical about maids due to experiences but the way I see it- until and unless she does anything for me not to trust her- I'll give her the benefit of the doubt and appreciate that she means well and is good to my son. This is a big experiment for me let's hope for the best and see how it goes!
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 May 2013 - 08:44
Sure Samz! basically- she was previously working with an agency company and she was my regular helper when I moved to Dubai. When her contract with the company was up for renewal- I also became pregnant with #2 and my husband suggested we take over her visa seeing as how she has been working with us for a while and we trusted her. She was also keen on not renewing her contract and so we decided to sponsor her. The issue simply was that I do not have a maids room in my apartment and also- I do like my privacy so she said that wouldn't be a problem and she can easily find a 'room'. So included in her salary is her rent and transport to and from our home :) The process was pretty simple seeing as she's already in dubai, no agency fees, and transferring her visa has been very quick.
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2013 - 17:40
Hi Cleo4e It's awful feeling like the bad cop all the time. It's great that your maid is building a relationship with your son but it shouldn't be at the expense of your relationship with him. She really needs to be working with you on this and at the moment (although I'm sure it's not deliberate or with ill intent) she is working against you. She needs to follow your rules, plain and simple. What works for our home is that I have very strict boundaries with our maid and children. They've been in place since day one and I was very clear from the start about what her role would be. I did it not only to avoid what you are describing but also because if I'm busy doing something I think it's important that they learn how to wait and amuse themselves for a time rather than go running to her to play with them. It helps them learn patience and independent play helps their imaginations soar. Our maid only plays with our children if I have specifically asked her to. They know they are not to ask her to play with them either. If they want something they have to ask me and if I'm busy they wait. It also means that she isn't jumping in doing things that they really should be doing for themselves. Her time actually playing with them is minimal, she used to have half an hour with them while I was cooking their dinner but I stopped that a while back. I sometimes leave my three year old with her if he's tired at school run time. She does evening babysitting once I've put them to bed. They really like her and she is great with them when they do play. She knows their routine so she could jump in if there was ever an emergency but I prefer to do the day to day stuff myself. Daza! That's exactly what I want. What you've described is THE PERFECT scenario for me. I love the way you work and you have a fantastic system! Your kids know who'se in charge and everyone knows their roles! I think I just need to be a little more 'firm' with my wishes and how i'd like for things to be done when it comes to my child. I just don't want to come off sounding like a 'female dog' lol because she really is sweet and sensitive and could take it the wrong way. *sigh* I just feel i'm not cut out for maids lol
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2013 - 14:48
Thank you all for your suggestions and advice and support! I appreciate and value them very much. *HUGS to all* I've tried story times (which he LOVED), song time, play time, painting/drawing, puzzles, all kinds of activities. But he seems to have just lost interest completely in all the activities we would enjoy doing together. When the maid is in the house, all he wants to do is go bounce off the walls with her (literally). So it's her 'fault' really. I know she's trying to be helpful and trying to build a relationship. My son also seeks her out while she's working. edited by Cleo4e on 05/05/2013 <em>edited by Cleo4e on 05/05/2013</em>
 
 
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