Cleo4e | ExpatWoman.com
 

Cleo4e

Cleo4e
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Latest post on 05 May 2013 - 14:44
Your house, your rules... FULL STOP! There will be an initial period of behaviour adjustment as your toddler gets used to a new person in the home. Soon the allure will wear off... Plus if you have a good framework for good behaviour already in place, it will settle down... In my experience (I've had 2 maids), they want the kids to like them & they tend to be quite soft in general or are worried about being firm and then you not liking it! I always feel like I'm bad cop in my household, as my maid & hubby are always the fun ones & I am always giving out the rules & corrections... If after numerous appeals for her to 'parent' your way & she doesn't listen... Find another! I know that sounds harsh, but they are there to make your life EASIER... At least he really likes her, which will be an absolute blessing when No2 comes... Just explain to your maid very firmly (she is your employee!) what you expect & why it's not okay for fun 100% of the time... My maid has a heart of gold, and is too much of a pushover, but slowly she is coming around & being stricter with our 2yo... THANK YOU!!! I'm in Dubai alone most of the time with my son- I had to put in place some rules and routines that I can manage on my own that works for my family and all I ask for consistency. He's a toddler, and I know his behaviour will change, but should the rules change as well? I don't think so- they are there for his own wellbeing and safety. She's wonderful and has a great personality and I would hate to have to let her go. Ill give it some more time- but if it's not working out with our family dynamic...it's just not worth it :(
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 05 May 2013 - 14:38
Honestly, from what you're describing and from the perspective of the mom of a 3 year old DS, I think the behaviour you're seeing in your son NOW is much, much more typical given his age than what you used to see. It could just be that the additional person in the mix has brought out the 2 year old in him. So, I don't think it's fare to place all the blame on the maid. When dealing with the maid, I think it's important to pick your battles. This may be one that's worth pursuing and bringing up with her again, but give it thought before doing so. What is her fault and what's the result of your frustrations with your son's behaviour changes? Also know that if TINA is Filipina, their way of dealing with discipline with kids is different than many Westerners are used to--not sure if that's cultural or due to their role as maid/nanny or both. I often find our nanny uses humor and distraction to get my very strong willed 3 year old to do what he's supposed to. So, if my son were to refuse to come to lunch, I wouldn't be shocked to find our nanny tickling him for a bit and then encouraging him to come each his lunch. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. You're absolutely right- I did think that his behaviour is just all a part of his development at this stage which is fine and I can accept that. However, when it comes to the rules I've put in place for him, I just feel everyone in the household should be on the same page as I am. As for flipina's approach on dealing with discipline I do understand there are cultural differences and I did observe them for a while, on a few occasions before I jumped to any conclusions. Would she play then encourage him to eat? Would she use humour and then help him brush his teeth?... she never did unfortunately. He just gets rowdy and rambunctious around her, and knocks things over and she lets him and allows him to carry on- until I have to go in, suggest it's time to eat. I guess its a learning process for us all.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 05 May 2013 - 13:39
We did ours with Dawn Ventura- LOVED the class and loved her!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 May 2013 - 11:53
As Landlords, we arranged a time- once a month at the convenience of our tenant to offer viewings for agents. Only serious buyers, and we made sure to ask all agents and prospective buyers to remove their shoes. Any discussions would be done in the main lobby of the building or anywhere else apart from our tenants home. It had to be a quick viewing 'ln - look- out'. We've been tenants as well, and know what it feels like to have landlords take advantage of you, and we were determined not to be nasty to anyone else.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 May 2013 - 11:45
I see DR Syed Ahmed at City Hospital. I now started seeing him in his clinic at Family First on Al Wasl just because his hours are more flexible. He was referred to me by a friend and he's been following our son since he was 4 months old (shortly after we moved here). He's wonderful, soft spoken and amazing with my very difficult son. What I love the most about him is that he's not a 'drug pusher'. I find a lot of DR's here are quick to prescribe antibiotics ect... He listens- never rushes and is extremely knowledgeable in his field. No complaints here!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 May 2013 - 11:32
I'm wit DR Elsa at City and I adore her. I couldn't be happier. I have no complaints so far, from the nursing staff- hospital staff, or my dr- everyone has been wonderful since day 1. I'm almost a little sad about going home to deliver (i have to, for many family reasons), because service wise- it's been a great experience at CITY.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 May 2013 - 11:19
awwww I totally understand what you mean by the aches and pains. Baby #1 did a number on my back and now the I'm pregnant with #2, the aches and pains are all back. I'm doing the yoga/pilates pre-natal classes at EXHALE in JBR. I do enjoy them quite a bit! It's not near the ranches, but they do have saturday classes.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 28 April 2013 - 11:29
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.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 21 April 2013 - 09:41
I have had three easy NVDs with no tearing. The recovery was so easy. I can't imagine ever choosing to have a C-section. I recognize that every birth story is different, but there are plenty of good NVD stories too. The key to having a good NVD is an epidural IMO. :-) Anon- I'd love to hear your tips on pushing and labouring lol I'm realllllllllyyyyyyy hoping for a vbac in Oct! LOL
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 19 April 2013 - 12:10
Dear KH & all, I'm so sorry some of you had bad vb experiences- it sounds horrible! I had my son 2 years ago. I was induced, labour progressed but when came time to push, the DR's realized his head was stuck and he wouldn't descend so I had a c-section. In my experience, I wasn't mentally prepared for a c-section and I am a scaredy cat when it comes to surgeries. I had never been cut open before and I was really intent on having a natural delivery. I was gutted. For me personally- recovery from my c-section was really hard. Not being able to go up/down stairs, lifting, ect... I didn't feel like myself, and I was upset about the risks I would now have to face if I were to get pregnant again. It took me a very very long time, until I felt 'normal' again. I always had an ache/pain at the incision site even a year later. I'm not sure if this was psychological but it felt very real and I even spoke to my OB about it. She said I was fine, but some women, can experience some pain up to a year later as it takes that long for the incision site to FULLY heal. That's also the recommended time, Dr's say to wait before getting pregnant again after a c-section. I was an active person before my pregnancy, and the biggest thing for me, was that I was no longer active. Getting in and out of bed, was difficult, in and out of cars...walking even trying to breast feed my son was painful because I couldn't get into a good comfortable position to hold him... I was very depressed. I'm now pregnant again, and I'm hoping for a VBAC. I feel- even if I tear, or need an episiotomy my recovery would still (hopefully) be quicker than my c-section. I have an active 2 year old, and I can't afford to be down and out like last time- especially now that I'm in Dubai and don't have family around. However, in the event that I do need a c-section, I do feel like I am better prepared mentally for it, and know what to expect mind you- every pregnancy and L&D is different. To protect my perineum and help any incontinency issues that could result from a VB, I am religiously doing kegels and pre-natal pilates to strengthen my pelvic flood muscles. I would suggest to do what feels right for you and your body. A C-section did not agree with me, and I hope to VBac this time around.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 16:02
Oh yeah, I was the one who asked you if it was your second baby. I think we were both first row. I am going again next week, I thought it was fun + afterwards I went to Baroque and had an amazing healthy lunch. Dont know about zumba but why dont u give the regular gym a shot? Some cardio and light weights? A friend also adviced me today to try yoga, so thats next on my to do list edited by KenzaB on 16/04/2013 That's so funny! I went to Baroque afterwards as well for some juice! Their thai chicken soup is amazing! and yes I was in the first row too! I'm planning on trying their yoga class as well! I guess I will be seeing you around then!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 13:22
I do understand the poster's concern with turning on the AC. We also came from a cooler climate where most homes don't have ac's and we got by fine with fan's in the summer time. I did get sick a lot during my first summer here. Got bad headaches and aches and pains in the morning with the AC running. However, we quickly realized that AC's will be a fact of life in dubai. We maintain our ac's regularly get them thoroughly cleaned and get the ducts cleaned as well. In my son's room- i usually keep the curtains drawn during the day- and have the ac running in there for most of the day while he's not in the room. By night time the room is nice and fresh. I give him a cool bath- put him in just a camisole and leave the door ajar. He sleeps very comfortably, doesn't sweat (despite being a sweaty baby) and wakes up happy and fresh 12 hours later. This works for me for now- but come june/july AC through the night is a must.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 12:58
I'm still in my first trimester so it feels like a constant battle with the gym. I was going five times a week pre-pregnancy, taking high impact bootcamp style and circuit classes. Now I'm either too nauseated or too tired to even go walk on the treadmill. I tried going to a low impact class last night, but even that was exhausting. I need to stave off the bloating I'm experiencing, but this is the pits. Please say it will get better after the first trimester? have faith hun... i was working out pre-pregnancy as well (not as intense as you) but, as soon as the 6 week mark hit- I just couldn't do it. I just just started yesterday with pre-natal pilates at 15 weeks and just doing what I can. It will get better- just give it time and don't push yourself if you can't.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 12:56
HA! No way you were at Exhale too? So was I- also my first time lol I was the one who during introductions said I was 15 weeks and massive lol I should be there again next week! I don't know how the class will keep me fit either- but I'm desperate not to gain that much again so I'm giving anything a shot and hoping for the best lol I'm a bad swimmer too but will also try that out! I wonder if zumba is a good idea for preggos?
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 15 April 2013 - 15:42
I live in JBR in the trident building, we have the beach across the road from us, and take my little one to the plaza level of the JBR residences to play all the time. TONS of children, and very convenient. Because we live right where the walk starts- traffic isn't all that bad and the apartment's finish is pretty decent as well. I can't imagine living anywhere else, we love it here!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 15 April 2013 - 15:36
maybe in the maids and nanny's section or classifieds you would be able to find someone who will suit your needs. I saw quite a few postings!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 15 April 2013 - 15:34
I would say- go with your gut and do what you think is best for your LO and yourself. My son slept in his own crib in his own room at 3 months for the 1st 1/2 of the night (8 to 2 am). For the second half- he would feed and I would be too lazy to put him back in his crib ,so I let him sleep with us. By 9 months he was in his crib in his room- for the entire night_ even after his night feeds. The reason why I moved him so early, was because my son even though he was a baby- was a BIG boy, so is my husband so room for all of us was tough. I also had a very painful c-section that would hurt up until a year after having my son. When LO would be in bed with us, he'd move around and sometimes kick my c-section scar and the pain would just make me paranoid that something has happened. But in the end- this method worked for us. I feel my son slept better and longer on his own,and could move around as he pleased. And I too got some sleep and wasn't such a grumpy zombie of a mother. Now that i'm pregnant with #2, let's see what happens.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 15 April 2013 - 15:20
After a rough 1st trimester, I'm finally starting to feel better! I gained over 60 pounds with my first pregnancy and am determined not to let that happen again and have a more active and safe pregnancy this time around. I started doing pre-natal yoga and pilates in JBR and also ordered The Pregnancy Project DVD's to help me. Just curious to know what all you other mom's out there are doing to stay active and fit! For those of you who have babies, did staying active help you with labour?
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 14 April 2013 - 14:10
Hello all, I'm searching for nursery reccomendations for my 8 month old son. My husband and I are working so we would need a place that is open somewhere between 8am and 6.30pm year around, do these even exist? We live in JLT and would prefer one at this end of the city but all reccomendations are most welcome!! Big thanks in advance! My son goes to Blossoms Children's Nursery in Umm Al Sheif. I love it- and so does he! fantastic staff- they really get to know the kids- great program- great teachers. I will be sending my second there as well when he's ready :) One thing that I love about the place which is a great bonus for me personally is that they provide all the healthy meals and snacks! I would strongly recommend it!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 13 April 2013 - 11:02
I have an appointment today at Sensasia at the Emirates Golf Course...I've heard amazing things about their mommy massages so looking forward to trying it out today :)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 13 April 2013 - 11:00
I got the first dose of the rotavirus vaccine for my son from Canada and the second dose was given to him here by his paediatrician at City Hospital. Dr Syed Ahmed. To be honest- i don't remember what the cost was :s
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 11 April 2013 - 22:57
Group CCM/ CCM Consultancy also offers excellent courses (or so I'm told)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 10 April 2013 - 16:12
I know about Family & Friends in the Al Fattan Tower in JBR as well :) Joanne there is absolutely lovely!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 08 April 2013 - 08:53
Back in my home country I used to work in a paediatric hospital and did a few shifts in the ER. I'm not here to criticize anyone for the choices they make regarding their kids. After all, all parents want is the best for their babies. I just wanted to point out that by some parents choosing NOT to vaccinate their children- a lot of very old illness that are supposed to be irradiated in (1st world countries- anyways) are seeing a comeback. Even illness like Polio, whooping cough, scarlet fever ect... and yes these illness can be deadly for young infants. I've vaccinated my son, some vaccines I chose to do later and some not at all. I don't believe in the chickenpox vaccine for example and I chose not to vaccinate him for TB just yet (he's 2) but he's had all of his other ones on time and it gives me some comfort to know that he's protected. I feel in dubai we are exposed to so many people from so many different countries and god knows what illness we are being exposed to. So all I have to say is- make informed decisions and work with your paediatrician to see how you can space out your vaccines but I personally would never NOT vaccinate. I've seen too many sick babies who've lost their lives.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 08 April 2013 - 08:38
Try looking up Saman Ansari from Saffron Affairs on Facebook. I know she does freelance photography and is new to dubai and probably looking to get her name out :)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 04 April 2013 - 10:49
I haven't seen it either- but I would also love to know if anyone has!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 16:35
This is my own personal opinion and I am sure there are others who do not agree with me. Life as a homehelp is not a prison sentence. Yes I let my homehelp stay out overnight at friends and I have to trust her that she is staying with friends. Yes they are your responsibility insofar as you sponsor them. You will not get fined if she ends up pregnant but it will be your responsibility to send her back to her home country as soon as you do find out. My homehelp is 36 years old with an lazy ex husband. I do let her stay out overnight but I also have told her that she if ever got pregnant then she would be on the next plane home. Happy for her to drink if she gets herself a licence but lucky for me she doesn't drink. I will NOT allow any boyfriends in my home though. I agree. It's a tough thing to do, because these maids are also grown women and adults- and I personally hate feeling like I need be parenting them. With my maid, who is a live-out- she has no choice but to stay out at night (sleep at her place), I have made it clear to her the consequences and what repercussion she will face if she is caught doing anything wrong or illegal here. My maid, hasn't done anything for me not to trust her so I do and I just hope she's smart enough not to do something she will regret. And yes! NO BOYFRIENDS AT HOME EVER <em>edited by Cleo4e on 03/04/2013</em>
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 16:28
HI Ladies, Just curious about the Live-out helper salary... Currently, I have a live-in. We pay/cover everything, food, toiletries (soap, shampoo, girly things, toilet paper, lotion, all meds, full access to household STUFF), etc. Her salary goes in her pocket or home or whatever she does with it. Does the 2,200-3,000 dhs cover all living expenses, including their living space, utilities, food, toiletries....? I think, 3,000 dhs would cover it- depending on where your maid lives and how much rent she needs. For my maid- that would cover it, plus she does get extras from us as well. For example- she owns most of my wardrobe. Before I got pregnant- I bought myself tons of clothes, that I never wore (brand new with tags still on) and they fit her, and she got everything. She also eats 1-2 meals at my home as well, and has full access tour kitchen- she can eat what she likes throughout the day. So I think at 2,800-3,000 her expenses are covered- if they weren't she would let us know for sure.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 16:16
Yay!!! This makes me happy!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 10:35
I about 3 yrs ago, I adopted a female Calico Kitten (also known as a tortoise). The 1st day I got her, she bit me and drew blood. But I decided to keep her and hoped it was just a one time thing. When I brought her to my vet, my vet told me, that certain breeds of cats are simply naturally more aggressive and territorial than others and that I would have a lot of trouble with this cat as she got older. I refused to believe that, as I had plenty of experience fostering stray cats ect...and thought I could just train her. I kept my cat and gave her a great life! But the older she got, the more aggressive she became- particularly towards me. She loved my husband though. My arms would constantly be scratched up and bitten (to this day i still have the scars)- I believed declawing my cat was inhumane... in any case, I dealt with my aggressive cat for as long as I could. I became pregnant- and my cat's aggression was still the same despite all of my efforts. At that point...I couldn't risk having an aggressive cat around a newborn baby, so I spent almost 6 months interviewing potential candidates for rehoming her. She was aggressive, but I did love her and wanted to make sure she would be well treated where she went. 3 weeks before I delivered my son- I finally found a perfect home for her- no kids, 1 man who lived alone and worked from home. It was perfect and my cat was much happier in that home than she was in mine. Some cats- are just wrong fits for certain families... Overstimulation, too much action, too much noise, too many things, not feeling 'in control' can sometimes lead to animals lashing out sometimes... Perhaps rehoming your male cat could be a good idea for your family.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 09:56
Agree with Meagle! That's about the price range we looking at as well, 2200-2500 + 1 ticket a year back home. As for maids working hours, that something that we discussed with the maid and agreed on hours that would be reasonable and discussed her day off as well. if the maid is already here- the visa process doesn't take very long, and the benefit to have a maid that's already here and who'se worked here- she knows her way around ect... When you bring a maid from the home country- I imagine it could be difficult to have her live out as she won't know the area, will need help getting around ect... If you're expecting in October (like me)- I would suggest even starting your search now and hiring someone before you deliver- Just so that you have time to get to know each other and work together and be comfortable.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 09:47
Hi girlies!! Hope everyone is well. Just had my 12 week u/s and blood test at the Fetal Test Center near City. All appears fine so far- so that's a nice relief. The u/s DR was able to tell me the baby's gender. Is that possible this early on? I remember with my first (in Canada), they couldn't tell me before I was at least 16-17 weeks? Do you all know the gender of your babies? edited by Cleo4e on 02/04/2013
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 12:44
CLeo4e Really what I was looking at- how did you go about finding her. Was it someone who you got through an agency initially or sourced yourself? There are so many websites don't really know where to start. Would love to get any gems. Mums She was originally an agency maid that used to come to do cleaning at our home 3 times a week. Her contract and visa expires at the end of April and that's where we take over. My husband will be putting her under his visa. She's never really been a 'housemaid' before as she's only ever worked as a cleaning lady, so I'll be doing a lot of training, in terms of cooking, and childcare but she speaks great english and understands very well, so my fingers crossed that this arrangements works out well. I'll keep you posted! OH and also- as for her transport: the salary we are offering her, includes her metro transport- as well as her rent in an apartment she will be sharing with her sister who is also a live out housemaid.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 12:39
we're in the process of hiring a full time live out maid. She used to work for an agency and her visa and contract expires at the end of April -that's when we'll take over her sponsorship. I know it's risky- but my husband and I are willing to give it a shot. She's been coming to our home through the agency for 2 years now. She's known my son since he was 5 months old, she knows us, and we have not reason not to trust her. I'm expecting #2 now- so we can use the extra help, but I also like my privacy in the evenings- which is why a live out was the best option for our family. Let's see how it goes!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 12:17
Hi Ladies, glad to be joining this thread. I'm 16 weeks pregnant and due early September. I've been seeing Dr Badi at the EHL clinic in the meadows but not entirely convinced about her. So after reading through various threads and people's recommendations, I've finally got a last minute appointment with Dr Elsa at the city hospital for tomorrow morning. I wanted to ask for a few pointers regarding this appointment. Initially I had planned to go back home (UK) to have the baby but due to work commitments and the great maternity leave we get in dubai (lol) I am beginning to think that that plan will not be viable especially as I intend to work up to or as close to the due date as possible. Although this is my third pregnancy, it feels all new to me because last pregnancy was 12 years ago. I'm only 35 now so started early in the past. Unfortunately, I have now forgotten everything about pregnancies and doctors etc so and so any pointers as to what questions to ask Dr Elsa about the pregnancy and what to expect in the next few weeks would be appreciated. Thanks! I'm seeing DR Elsa at City, and I feel she's just lovely. Answers all of my questions and more. Since this is my second pregnancy- (my last one being 2 yrs ago) I didn't really have a whole lot to ask. My biggest concern was - can I VBAC and and am I a viable candidate. That was my main concern. She covers pretty much everything with you. I on the other hand- if all is well , Insha'allah-will be returning to Canada at the end of May to deliver there. With Dr. Elsa, you're in good hands and I wouldn't have too much to worry about.
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 22:00
Dr Syed Ahmed at Family First (on al wasl) or at City Hospital :)
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 20:35
I'm at 11 weeks, and it's as bad as ever. Tried every trick under the sun and nothing worked for me. Im just ridding it out and hoping it will all magically go away in 3 weeks *sigh*
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 19:50
I have been 8 weeks pregnant twice with 2 pregnancies and both times tested negative with drugstore tests. Sometimes, you can be pregnant but your body does not produce enough HCG hormones to be picked up by 'home pregnancy tests'. So if when I suspect that I am pregnant- I always visit my doc and get a blood test done :)- which have been positive the both times that I tested negative at home.
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Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 19:43
Hi Cleo... I can imagine your embarrassment!!!! hmm... what to do.. i should tell you this was the one thing which i was thinking two weeks back when i went to PFC with the crave of having a dynamite shrimp.. luckily i got a corner seat and was able to finish the dinner... :) Soon you will be over all this sickness and will be able to dine out properly :) Hope your little one is getting well ... Take care.. LOL Dynamite shrimp.mmm who can resist that! Thanks Aish- I'm just so frustrated with the nausea :(
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 24 March 2013 - 08:53
Hi guys!! Hope everyone is well! Just wanted to share the most embarrassing experience of my life *sigh*. So the nausea as some of you may know has been especially horrible for me and i've been stuck at home for fear of going out and getting sick in public. Well..on friday- my dearest husband forced me to come out (hoping it would help me feel better)- saying it would do me some good, see some friends ect... I happen to be craving hot and sour soup from PF Chang's as well, so thought ok...let's give it a try. So we dropped my 2 yr old off at my in-law's and got ready to have a nice evening. So we went- all was well, until the soup arrived. I ate about 1/2 of it, until all of the sudden I knew this was going to come up. I also knew if i got up to run to the ladies room I wouldn't make it, I happen to have had a plastic bag in my purse as a precaution lol which I quickly whipped out. I had no choice and ducked under the table and got sick in the restaurant!! AAAHHHH soo sooo sooooooooo embarrassing, as I'm sure neighbouring tables saw, and my friends (who are not mommies) freaked out and that only drew more attention...ughhh... anyways-I've decided, that until this nausea blows over completely- I will not be going out again lol As for updates- I've hit 11 weeks today (alhumdullilah). I have my nuchal test next sunday- my son caught hand foot and mouth disease from nursery (for the second time), so just been busy trying to keep him comfortable and hydrated- myself un-sick and uninfected and getting the house ready to host some friends from Canada. It's a busy week. I'm looking forward to april, to being in my second trimester and just feeling like my old self again. I'm totally up for a meet up on the 5th ,provided i'm not longer sick- what a great first impression i'd make getting sick in front of u guys lol
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 23 March 2013 - 15:33
Belle Femme has home services as well!
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 23 March 2013 - 10:00
For some brands that I loved from back home and cannot get enough of- I like to go to Safestway right of of SZR. I buy my tide with febreeze, my downey with febreeze lol, my swifter wet wipes, weinman wipes act.. all from there and some other North American stuff that I haven't found elsewhere. I also, go to Waitrose (in the marina mall, and at dubai mall), and for my fruits and veggies I do my best for organic and like to go to the Organic Shop. I do pay more than I would like... but for now, I haven't really found more 'local' alternatives that I like. As for milk- I do love Elle et Vivre but we mainly stick to Al-Marai and Al Rawabi Mik. <em>edited by Cleo4e on 23/03/2013</em>
Cleo4e
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Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 09:46
maids.ae I believe have babysitters and cleaners.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 09:45
I believe to have seen them at Waitrose Dubai Mall last week :)
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 15:32
I'm in the same situation Kiwispiers! I would have liked to kept him in there for a while, but I'm expecting #2 as well and need his crib. We're going to go shopping for single bed soon as well with side rails. I just hope he'll actually sleep in it. Whenever he's in a bed- he just gets excited and starts jumping around and rolling around in it. I guess it will just take some getting used to!
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 10:17
I had a nice blow out done at Belle Femme on JBR :) Very happy with it!
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 10:03
I went for my first scan at 6 weeks and a day and they had to do it vaginally because it was far too early. They couldn't see/hear a heartbeat at that point because the embryo is just so tiny and your bladder needs to be full full full!. With my first baby however, I got my scan at 7 weeks and 4 days and they did a regular u/s on my tummy and could see everything. (that was in canada). Good luck with your scan and congratulations on your pregnancy! Hi So i am going for my first scan at 7 weeks. Its my first pregnancy so no idea what to expect. Silly questions sorry: Will it be a scan on my tummy or vaginally since its early? Can you hear the heartbeat by 7 weeks and will i see the baby&gt;? Do i need to go with a full bladder or empty for the scan? Thanks for the answers in advance
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 09:58
I gave birth in Canada 2 yrs ago. My Labour was induced at 39 weeks due to low levels of amniotic fluid. They started the induction at 9pm on a friday and by saturday morning 4 am, I needed an epidural badly. I was 5 cm and not progressing. I'm told, that the contractions are much stronger and much more painful when you are induced rather than when you go into labour naturally. The epidural for me personally was a heaven sent. It was not painful getting it in- it felt uncomfortable and it's an odd sensation having something go into your spine- but I wouldn't classify it as pain. After the epidural- I was able to relax and sleep and I didn't feel my contractions. By 3pm saturday I was fully dilated and ready to push. My labour resulted in a c-section because somewhere along the line- my sons shoulder got stuck in my hip bone and according to my dr, my bone structure didn't allow for them to be able to manually move him into proper position and my efforts to push proved to be futile. So the dr's decided on a c-section. When the spinal block was finally removed, I had a bit of soreness at the epidural site for about 3 months after birth, but it went away. I had no complications (alhamdullilah) and no issues walking afterwards. I'm now pregnant with #2, and I'm hoping on having a successful vbac. Will I get an epidural again? I don't know. I'm hoping on going into labour naturally and seeing how long I can go without it and will try my best to manage the pain in other ways (walking- moving- large pilates balls). I'll try and test myself- but , if I need it- I'll keep and open mind about it.
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 09:27
thank you so much, I'll take a look at the links for sure!
Cleo4e
299
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 20:40
I'm sorry I don't have any advice for you on the hospital- but you did peak my interest! Al Zahra would definitely be somewhere to look into!
 
 
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