Daza | ExpatWoman.com
 

Daza

4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 14:39
We hd a Canadian friend visit on a visit/tourist visa last week. I sent our insurers (AXA) a copy of his Canadian driving licence and they sent me an amended policy document with him named on the policy, so it's worth asking, and worth getting it in writing. But what would happen if he was pulled over by the police? Could they say he was driving a private vehicle without a valid license? I
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 14:31
I wouldnt rely on this as my friends Dad was in a prang and the insurance company wouldnt agree to this. It is a very grey area Our insurance company said they would cover in accordance whatever the RTA advised. You are right, it is a very grey area and frustrating trying to get definitive answers.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 13:15
Unless things have changed you need a current residence visa to drive here using a UAE license. Check with the RTA in case there has been any change in this though. If your son is a first degree relative of the registered owner of the car he can drive your cars using a license from one of the approved countries. This is what the RTA advised us a bit over a year ago.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 12:29
But what if you ran into her in a shopping mall or something? What would you do? This happened to me a few months after our maid absconded. She tried to pretend she was someone else and had no idea who or what I was talking about. It was laughable. I got my phone out and she bolted, I couldn't follow her as I had children in tow. Not seen her since.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 21:22
I've taken my children to loads of licensed restaurants and they have always been welcome. Some have a no children after a certain time policy. Any restrictions will be from the restaurant itself and not law so just check ahead.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 21:19
No, no fee apart from losing your deposit of course. When I did it a few years ago all you did was call immigration (I think) and report it, then it's out of your hands. If she has her passport expect them to ask why she had access to it but that's about it.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 14:11
without hesitation i would tell family members and stuff the consequences. My closest friends and family would always tell me and i would expect them too. Same here. I'b be devastated if family or close friends knew and said nothing. Feeling like the last to know is pretty humiliating.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 13:21
It's gone! Someone must have realised. There was an ad for Caltex Oil 'The engine oil of champions'.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 13:15
Appalling. What's up with that ad in the middle of the text? I really hope it's an oversight rather than someone's idea of a joke...
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 17:41
Yes, work has started on a belgium beer cafe, next to the existing restaurant where the golf carts are often parked. It will be bar food rather than a full menu so as not to compete as much with the existing restaurant.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 16:25
Thank you Sakhifa!
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 15:14
I missed the memo on that one...where does this REALLY happen and who really dreams of this?? Tee hee. My first few weeks were spent in a one bed short let in The Greens. No babysitter so no going out, duty free running out and no alcohol license, spending every night thinking WHAT HAVE WE DONE????!!!!
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 15:05
I think you just met the wrong people ButterflyBlue! I don't think any of my friends I met when I first arrived have become expat brats, they are all still lovely. A few have left, we are still in touch and I have no doubt we will be life long friends even if we don't see each other very often.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 14:45
When it comes out on DVD, Ripper Street (BBC) - very good. Also, this isn't a drama, but a comedy: Pramface. BBC also but i think available on DVD. [b'>And Game of Thrones starts soon[/b'>! Woop woop! April 1st I think?
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 14:42
Finally back in my heels after pregnancy and I have missed them! But also have forgotten how uncomfortable they are! Had 4 pairs ballet flats and 4 pairs flip flops that saw me through pregnancy, felt like a midget. [b'> Not sure my gold stilettoes are very "mumsy" tho! lol[/b'> :) To h*ll with mumsy TDB, work those heels! A quick look around my children's school at pick up time will tell you that uber-glam is the new mumsy. I'm still slumming it in flats though ;)
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 11:55
Pre kids I wore 4-5 inch stilettos to work every day with no problems. Seven years no working and I sometimes manage to fall off my flip flops :( <em>edited by Daza on 21/03/2013</em>
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 10:09
Love love love The Walking Dead and Sons of Anarchy. Just watched season 1 of Dexter which I really enjoyed. My all time favourite would probably be 24. Action, nail biting suspense and the hotness that is Keifer Sutherland.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 10:02
Hi D-J I've just had my 4th child and have similar spacing to you. The older ones have all just had birthdays and turned 3, 5, and 7, my new baby is a month old. I always wanted 4 and my family feels perfect now our lovely baby has joined us. I don't work so you would have that added aspect. Life feels pretty busy right now, I can't imagine having to fit a full time job in as well although obviously if you had trusted childcare it would help greatly. My older children are loving having a new baby in the house and are really helpful plus they are old enough (as yours would be) to be pretty independent with many things. If my 3 year old gets stuck doing something his older siblings can help him if I'm busy feeding. Good luck with you decision.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 14:08
Does anyone know what the parking is like at the new one? I go to The Greens and with the parking there normally have to push my trolley out on to the road to pack my groceries in to my car. I always have my young children with me and hate having to step out on to the road with them. Also are there a few more staff for packing etc? I find it pretty useless at The Greens, there is very rarely anyone packing. I do big shops there so it's unload groceries at one end and packing as fast as I can at the other because there is very little room and often people waiting. Which wouldn't actually be hard but my baby in the front pack and other little ones to keep an eye on makes it a bit trickier. Compared to yesterday at Spinneys, someone unpacked my trolley and someone packing at the other end, nice.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 14:25
Apart from any cost issue, while we are living here I'd much prefer that my children did school trips within this region, there is so much to see and learn about here. I don't hold out much hope though, their school seems pretty big on the extravagant trips too.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 13:54
I would just not say anything. However, because my husband and I are conservative Muslims, one time I told her to go put some pants on because my DH would be angry if a woman staying in our home appeared in the streets like that. [b'>You could always tell her that your DH doesn't allow that, although I know that would probably seem strange to her[/b'>. I can imagine she would go home and tell everyone she knew that men dictate what women in their home wear. Hence adding fuel to the fire about people's misconceptions about living here.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 17 March 2013 - 12:17
Apologies if this has been mentioned, I don't have time to read all the replies but are 'walking epidurals' available here? I had one when I had my first baby in the UK. I was able to move around and change position when I was pushing. They let it wear off a bit when it came to pushing so I was able to feel when to push. My legs were numb and tingling and it felt a little odd using them but it was nice to be able to move around as I wanted. With regards to the headache, I didn't get one with any of my three epidurals but I did get one when I had a spinal tap for suspected meningitis. The headache, whilst very painful (ok, very very painful) wasn't anything nearly as bad as hours of contractions!
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 15:06
Congrats on your baby's upcoming arrival! I'm the mum of 2 and have had the first with an epidural and the second without. I went into my first birth thinking I'll wait and see and get an epidural if I decided I couldn't take the pain any longer. No one told me that I was in transition when I finally got the epidural. If they had, I probably would have made it through the birth without one. I also didn't realize that laying in a bed on your back is the absolutely worst thing you can do during labor. Makes the contractions much harder to tolerate. I think if I would have been up and about during the first labour and had someone tell me I was nearing the end, I really wouldn't have needed the epidural with #1. I had an unmedicated birth with my second and have absolutely no regrets. If we have #3, I will try to do the same again. Labour is intense, but women have been doing it for generations without epidurals. Our bodies are made to do this. [b'>Our bodies generally also don't make babies we cannot birth naturally unless we have complications like gestational diabetes.[/b'> With both births, it got super intense and I started to doubt myself just at the point where I was in transition which means I was nearing the end. I think knowing that the end is in sight makes it much, much easier to endure. The epidural is a medical procedure and medication. That always comes with risks. Go over those risks thoroughly with your doctor (NOT untrained medical professionals or people who have never had one). Also know that getting an epidural does increase your risk of needing a c-section. For some people that's not a concern, but for me that was a big driver for wanting an unmedicated birth with my second. Oh, and I always thought I had a low pain tolerance, too, until I birthed 2 babies, 1 without medication. It's not about pain tolerance. I think if you understand what's going to happen, have a good support system with you while in labour, and can trust yourself you will be fine without an epidural. Meagle, that is simply not true and to be honest, it's a bit of an insult to women who have required intervention in birthing their babies. The UN estimates that around half a million women die per year due to complication is child birth or soon after. The vast, vast majority of these women are in undeveloped countries where they don't have access to medical care. I thank my lucky stars that I have been lucky enough to be pregnant and give birth in countries where I do have access to good medical care. Sorry to deviate OP and I hope that didn't scare you, luckily you are fortunate enough that you live somewhere that you have the choice of medical intervention if it's needed.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:48
I used an activity center with my first three and they all loved it. Not sure if it is what some people call a walker but even if it's not recommended it wouldn't put me off one bit, it will be getting trotted out again for my fourth baby. Found it a total lifesaver for the short time they use it. This isn't the one I have but it's similar. http://www.mamasandpapas.com/product-little-entertainer-activity-centre-little-land/442842400/type-i/
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:43
Hi MrsAbdalla, the important thing is that you have the birth that YOU want to have, what your relatives think it totally unimportant. Don't let them put any expectations on you and try not to put too many expectations on yourself, every birth is different and only you will know what you want when the time comes. I had an epidural for my first baby and it was absolute magic. Totally the right thing for me. There was a sharp sting when it went in but compared to the pain of contractions, it barely even registered. It worked perfectly although I do know a few people that it has only worked on one side. I could still walk and move around. The rest of my babies have been c-sections with a spinal block which goes in the same way as an epidural. They used a local anesthetic first so I didn't feel it. Your in laws are just scaremongering with regards to be left paralysed or the needle being like a sword. Neither are true.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:19
Thank you all! Persepolis, I plan to quit after baby number 2 - there is no way I could handle 2 LOs with a full time job - defo take some time out and return to the workforce when they're older. Will start on the pill but worried this isn't 100% foolproof. Oh well, what will be will be - I will probs be posting on here next month asking how to handle 2 under the age of 1! lol Nooooooooo TDB! As you had a c-section you need to be really careful not to get pregnant so quickly. You might be ok but post c-section if you get pregnant within a year the the risk of complications is much higher. No contraception is 100% foolproof but as AnonDubai says, the chances are slim on the pill - as long as you are taking it correctly. If you forget one, use condoms until it's safe again.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:14
With my first son I did combination BF and FF until he was eight months and my period didn't come until he was 14 months! [b'>My daughter was exclusively breast fed and my period started when she was 6 weeks old.[/b'> 3rd son stopped BF at 6 weeks due to medical reasons period came right away but he's now 20 months and I've only just stopped lactating! That's so unfair! It's lovely having a break from periods.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:04
My family all have UK passports but we haven't lived there for over six years. We've travelled to NZ on a few occasions in that time and never needed to organise any visas, it's just the 6 month stamp in passport on arrival.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 20:02
As a number of my friends with children very close together can attest to, YES you can get pregnant whilst still breastfeeding. Even if you haven't gotten your period back yet you don't know when it is coming and you can get pregnant when you ovulate before your first period. When it does restart it's common to be extra fertile. So don't take any chances! As for how long it will take to get your period back, there's no set answer. It generally comes back pretty quickly once you stop breastfeeding but can also come back before you stop. My first two pregnancies it came back shortly after stopping breastfeeding, the third it came back before I stopped (although I breastfed for longer) and the fourth I'll have to wait and see! No idea about the pill and breastfeeding.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 19:53
Congratulations Barbara!
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 15:09
lol, I'm British too and I was brought up only to tip when service exceeds normal. My husband is British and he says the same. Although I fear he may have moved to Dubai, forgotten his roots and gotten all flash. He tipped a takeaway delivery man nearly 80 dirhams the other week, I nearly choked. I normally tip a tenner, regardless of order size. I figure they travel the same distance no matter what the order.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 15:00
Any recommendations on a specific Filter, or where to buy it? I am having the same problem, minus the dandruff. :-( H2O Pure Blue. It's great, skin and hair are much softer.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 14:51
And don't worry unless you have a problem with your coccyx they won't even see your butt crack [b'>they use the sheet to wrap around you like a thong[/b'>. Urgh, the size of my a*se at the moment, I'd look like big white sumo wrestler.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 13:57
Sorry Mmmmm, just seen your reply. Have you tried tummy massage? You have to do it a certain way, making a shape like a backwards C, I've heard it can help with wind. Also, maybe try elevating the mattress slightly with books under it at her head end. Being slightly elevated has always helped my little ones with wind.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 13:46
Great food, great service and great atmosphere. I don't eat meat but even I think the beef wellington looks amazing.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 10:02
Don't worry MrsAbdalla, it really is fantastic and you really will be so happy. Yes it can be hard and yes you will be tired but that doesn't mean your happiness will be diminished one bit. I'm sitting here with my beautiful newborn baby sleeping in my arms, I'm exhausted but so what? I couldn't be happier. React to the negativity with positivity and keep smiling :)
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 12:53
In my experience it's the last month of pregnancy that really takes it's toll on your body. You might be lucky and not get them but as Meagle said, totally worth it if you do.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 10 March 2013 - 08:23
Happy Mother's Day to you too! I got lovely cards and kisses this morning :)
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 10 March 2013 - 07:44
I think 1yo is the suggested age although I haven't checked recently and these things change! I introduced it from 1 by using it in homemade biscuits. I always buy NZ honey, I'm biased being from there though ;) NZ manuka honey is great.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 10 March 2013 - 07:39
Simples, I can't imagine how frustrating it must be to be in the situation that many are like the Russian lady you speak of. Did your MIL say why she thought it made her unsuitable to employ? Pikachu, I never said that education is restricted to those born in to fortunate circumstances - although it is normally easier for those people to avail themselves of an education. Nor is being educated any barometer of intelligence. What I'm trying to say, albeit very clumsily due to sleep deprivation, is that the circumstances of your birth (especially your nationality) pay a large role in your future job prospects. It's especially evident here, from maids to managers, how much you are paid and how far you can advance is often determined by nationality.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 20:54
I truly believe one of the best things we can help our children with is a work ethic. So very true Nomad!
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 20:51
In Dubai it's illegal for children under 10 to be in the front seat. With my children, it's near impossible to keep them awake in the car if they want to fall asleep. Even if I'm sitting right next to them in the back seat. I think it would be pretty hard to concentrate properly on driving if I was focusing on trying to keep them awake, especially if they were next to me in the front.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 20:20
Don't stop your comments. Put your concrete spine in. Those children's voices aren't heard, try to make yours. I totally agree Amy. How someone chooses to raise their children is none of my business but that goes out the window if they are actually abusing them. If I knew someone was severely beating their children I wouldn't only say something, I'd call the authorities. In my view, if you turn a blind eye to abuse, you are complicit.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 20:10
My husband says no. Will be great when it finally does open!
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 20:08
Everyone is different angel joy, you have obviously had a problem with vit D so it's understandable that are extra vigilant with your baby. My personal view is that I don't want give my children supplements unless there is a problem. Breast milk is a complete food for my baby and as long as I'm healthy and eating well I trust that my milk can provide everything my baby needs. Like I said, it's just my personal view and I certainly don't expect everyone to agree :)
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 19:56
Have you tried winding her when she is asleep after her bottle? None of my children have needed to be awake to bring up wind. After night feeds I just wind them as normal while they sleep. None of them have had reflux though so apologies if that's not how it works with reflux babies,
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 19:52
Do you have a suggestion of brand or where to buy them Daza I find Spanx the best, I got them at Debenhams in Mall of the Emirates. I also have some own brand ones from Marks and Spencers which are ok but not as good as Spanx.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 19:49
Pikachu, my children are very fortunate (as am I) that due to the circumstances of their birth they have every opportunity available to them. It may not be fair but it is a fact of life that often (but certainly not always) people that are lucky enough to have access to a good education are the ones that end up in the well paid professions whilst those who are not able to avail themselves of such an education end up being in unskilled poorly paid jobs. As long as there is inequality in the world (and there will always be inequality in the world) there will be people who do the jobs that others may not be willing to do.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 13:33
At the risk of sounding completely shallow, I think it's really important to make your children understand the financial implications their career choice will have on their lifestyle. If they want to be able to afford certain things then they will have to be in a profession that allows them to earn enough to afford the things they want. Of course it depends on them as a person, some people will be happy to be doing a job they are passionate about even if it means they struggle financially, others will soon resent the job they initially loved if it doesn't allow them the lifestyle they want.
4062
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 13:25
I think it depends on your (and your baby's) skin colour and lifestyle. I haven't given any of my children vit D but we are white and spend a lot of time outdoors which means we get a lot of vit D naturally. Even my newborn is out in the garden with us in the afternoon getting some late sun on him. The only one of my children to get mild jaundice which cleared up quickly was my daughter who was born in the middle of an English winter. If you have a darker skin tone or don't spend much time outdoors then you might need to supplement.