Green-ish | ExpatWoman.com
 

Green-ish

2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2012 - 12:39
You like the same series as me! I loved Nurse Jackie and I'm just waiting for season 3 to be delivered. How could I forget Nurse Jackie?? Fantastic series!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2012 - 06:02
I'm enjoying "Revenge" at the moment. An Aussie series that's a few years old is "Love My Way"...I watched it for the first time recently and it's brilliant!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2012 - 05:56
They also have a live out option. Which is great because you can still have your privacy during the evenings :). It costs a bit more though compared to having a full time live in. Think it is around 2500aed per month for AR And you don't pay the sponsorship costs etc? That actually sounds like a pretty good deal. But the cost of the maid (2500) you could probably do it under your own sponsorship paying less salary and getting someone you chose and not off a database, plus of that 2500 what are they going to pay the maid? I bet its not even half that :( :\: It seems from this discussion that it's a slightly shady operation and you raise a good point...I wonder what the maid receives? However, in theory it's a business that's really needed in Dubai. AED2500 per month for live-out and sponsored by someone else is a bargain! If the agency is any good, the maids could still be paid 'well' out of that fee; no hassles for the employer if a maid doesn't work out...send her back and trial another one; no need to share your home with someone else (many families don't like having a maid living-in or don't have room); don't need to pay for flights home, medical expenses food etc or to keep her busy during long vacations away; the company assumes all responsibility for the maid's actions when she's not working in the home etc etc etc Where's that member who was looking for a business idea?? It seems Nannies Dubai needs some proper competition!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2012 - 05:49
And take it from me, those of us who leave never forget the friends we leave behind. I miss my Dubai mates every day. Hugs for you muurtje. xx
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2012 - 15:32
Is there a DNRD office near you that you could pop into? I always found the staff in there extremely helpful in sorting questions for planned visitors.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2012 - 12:49
...I usually stop and chat with the maids [b'>if they are mistreating their dogs...but don't blame them! The dogs are not their pets[/b'> but still they are forced to walk them and am sure they wudn't be bothered to pick after the dog too. Am just scared that this might lead to dogs being banned in gated communities..... Worse is when an aggressive breed of dog like Doberman is walked by a tiny little philipina who can barely manage to hold on to the leash when the dog pulls... Um, don't blame them??! regardless of whether the dog (or animal) is their pet or their employer's pet or anyone's pet, whether their employer has asked or forced them to walk them, doesn't make it 'acceptable' to mistreat an animal! edited by Pomegranate on 06/03/2012 IMHO I don't blame the maids: they are usually not hired to look after dogs, its an additional responsibility piled on to them...I have spoken to many ...the onus is on the pet owner not the maid. Even though I would go to the end of the world for any animal, I do appreciate the fact that not everyone is an animal lover! So why harass the poor maids ??!! They manage the kids, the household and then they are expected to pick up dog poo which they wudn't have EVER in their countries....so it's demeaning for them. Try talking to a few maids and you would know! I have 3 rescued dogs, 3 cats...and have a maid too...but ITS SOLEY my responsibility to take care of the dogs/cats, walk them and pick their poop....NEVER my maids....! She loves cats so she has taken it upon herself to help me take care of them ....but I don't expect her to and I am ever so thankful.... Even if it is part of their job description, I still don't blame the maids. Like all household and childcare duties, the employer should be ensuring adequate training and ongoing supervision. <em>edited by Green-ish on 06/03/2012</em>
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2012 - 12:39
They also have a live out option. Which is great because you can still have your privacy during the evenings :). It costs a bit more though compared to having a full time live in. Think it is around 2500aed per month for AR And you don't pay the sponsorship costs etc? That actually sounds like a pretty good deal.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2012 - 12:34
I think that if you have a dog it's YOUR responsibility to walk it and clean up it's mess, not your maid's. To be honest I don't think the maids are to blame here, I wouldn't be too happy cleaning up someone else's dog's poo. If you don't have time to walk your dog yourself, don't get one! If it's part of the maid's duties when she signs up for the job, then she should do that part of her job properly. It used to break my heart watching the way dogs and children were treated or, more accurately, ignored by the maids looking after them. Worse was when the maid and her charge/s were in the same street as the Madam and she didn't seem to give a hoot either. :(
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 16:11
I'm so very sorry for your loss. BC posted not long ago so I hope she sees this and is able to give you some advice. I cannot imagine your pain. You will be in my prayers.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 14:36
Oh yes...the tigers in Thailand are truly heartbreaking! In decent zoo's and parks expert handlers work with the tigers from birth so that the tigers trust them and allow them to be near. Strangers are generally not tolerated, even by these hand raised tigers. If you can touch a tiger willy nilly, it's probably drugged, abused and miserable. :( Go for the wild/reserve tiger watching. An experience of a lifetime.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 13:07
It really depends how skilled and professional that counselor is! I completely agree with this. I've seen a few psychologists over the decades for recurring bouts of mild depression. One added to my stress levels like I just can't describe. A couple had no impact whatsoever and I may as well have super-glued $200 to the wall at home and just talked to that. Some are amazing. Some just seem to 'get' me in a very short time and manage to give me simple strategies that actually work. None of those strategies are earth-shatteringly original, but when I'm in the pit, I can't see a way out or think of solutions for myself. The last counsellor I saw has clearly re-programmed me somewhat. For the first time in my life I recognise the signs before it gets nasty and 'treat myself' back to normal thinking. :D A [u'>good[/u'> counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist is worth their wieght in gold I reckon!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 12:59
I have had a check of my cervix my past two visits.It is fine. Very quick and just a little uncomfortable. I still find it embarrassing when someone has to look 'down there'. Better get used to it though as I am due in three days...lol :) Lol! Yep. Get used to it. ;) When you go in for the birth, don't be afraid to speak up for what you want (or have your support person ready to do it for you). If all is going well, nobody needs to be in the room with you and nobody needs to be giving you physical exams. Be ready to tell them all to BACK OFF if you're feeling crowded. :D Sorry for going off track Pingu. :)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 12:49
on behalf of my freind she s looking for a 6 - 7 kg wash machine with dryer ,low noise , good cleaning and reasonable price . Thanks Lol...I'm not going to be very helpful. NONE! Ours is a Seimens Wash & Dry and it washes brilliantly and dries really well. The downside is that a full load that needs both cycles will take at least three hours. If there's room, I'd always recommend separate machines.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 12:00
No they don't and you have 30 days to register the birth and only one of you needs to have a valid residency visa for the registration. You then have 120 days to get baby's visa sorted. edited by starsouthern on 04/03/2012 Like so many things in Dubai, it seems to depend on the staff on the day and maybe the way the wind is blowing! It's all so random. I had to show my passport with current residence visa, marriage cert and villa rental contract before Al Wasl would even take my money for antenatal visits. At American, I had to show it all before discharge (before they would issue the birth statement).
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 10:56
Keeping in mind that your little one will have no idea what's going on ;) , keep it simple. Make sure the timing suits her nap routine so she's not overtired and upset. I'd suggest keeping it short & quiet. All of the people alone can be overwhelming for the birthday girl. Celebrate your first year as parents, take a few photos of the birthday girl and a cake then send everyone home while she naps. :) don't think that's what she wanted. it's also in the main forum. her dd's actual birthday is earlier and the guests wants to go to church in the day (as she's celebrating on friday) so they wanted a night time thing. I think OP, if you just have ordered some lovely dishes and do a bit in the house, at least they can blow the cake for your DD then she can hop to bed in peace while the adults can continue. :) Ah thanks...and sorry OP. I didn't see the other thread. I agree with shjbelle...keep it simple at home and enjoy celebrating after the birthday girl gets to bed. :)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 09:52
Keeping in mind that your little one will have no idea what's going on ;) , keep it simple. Make sure the timing suits her nap routine so she's not overtired and upset. I'd suggest keeping it short & quiet. All of the people alone can be overwhelming for the birthday girl. Celebrate your first year as parents, take a few photos of the birthday girl and a cake then send everyone home while she naps. :)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 09:47
Why is she doing an internal exam? (only asking so we can help you work out what to expect ;) ) If it's something you want, it all depends on what the OB is doing/looking at. If it's simply a physical to check the state of your cervix, then it's uncomfortable at worst...like strong pressure but not pain. If she's planning on doing a sweep (way to early for that in my opinion) then that hurts! A sweep is where the OB uses her fingers to separate the membranes from the uterus. It can bring on labour. I had an OB perform a sweep without my permission when we had agreed only to an examination. I was FURIOUS...so be sure to understand what she's doing and make sure your position is very clear.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 09:41
Pingu, I think all you will need is a document stating that your new visa is in progress. It is a while ago now, but I had to show everything before even registering at Latifa...nothing until after the birth at AHD.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 16:45
I'm so sorry Cape Chick. Bl00dy PND is just not fair. Can you go back to your GP and seek another specialist? You could even see a psychologist until a psychiatrist is available? A psychologist (in my opinion) can be awesome at helping with the depression...I believe the big advantage of seeing a psychiatrist early is that they can prescribe meds for longer. (your GP can prescribe them for 6 months) There are meds that are safe to take while breastfeeding. As with all things, it's about benefit vs risk. If you are sure that you are ok without the meds but with some support, then there's no need for the meds until your baby is weaned. IF you are truely struggling every day and weaning before you are both ready adds to your stresses, then you can take the meds. Please take care of yourself and make sure you are surrounded by love and support. PND can be bl00dy lonely and it really shouldn't be. Don't refuse offers of help and don't be afraid to ask for it! Love and support to you. xxx <em>edited by Green-ish on 03/03/2012</em>
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 16:20
Anything you can stomach in tiny amounts, all day. Eat something small immediately before you go to bed and have something to nibble on before you get out of bed. I found the travel bands worked some days, not on others. Plain water was the worst thing I could drink. One pregnancy I could only tolerate room temp foods and drinks; another everything had to be ice cold...frozen grapes, mango and watermelon were lifesavers. I really think it's different for everyone. If your sickness is extreme...vomiting a lot so dehydration is a risk etc...there are really effective medications you can take. Like everything in pregnancy, don't take anything in the first trimester without your Dr's ok and only if the benefit outweighs the risk. Fingers crossed you'll wake up one day feeling amazing...I LOVE second trimester!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 15:49
Just so you know, before getting a second bird... Cockatiels are gorgeous, friendly little birds and adore human company, but...often if you get a second bird they'll lose almost all interest in their human buddies. So, if you want a bird you can handle and have hanging out with you around the house, I'd suggest sticking with one. If your one bird is often left on his own and you're not worried about wanting to handle him very often, finding him a buddy is a good idea. :)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 09:39
Silver jewlery for the 13 year old? Her name in Arabic on a necklace? The silver ones are not expensive and any of the stores in the gold souk can do it for you. In fact, my friend also organised one for my son...his name in Arabic in a very cool 'surfer-style' disc. It looks great.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 09:23
Just want to say to Wendyone what wonderful thoughtful posts. Hear! Hear! My gorgeous, gorgeous boy is only 6...but I'm a high-school teacher and I worry about the potential battles ahead. I adore teenagers with all of their spunk and energy, but being so emotionally invested in one is going to be a massive challenge. Thanks wendyone and best wishes to AQ and Kaba. xx
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 09:15
In the last 5 years I can't remember 3 sandstorms in 3 weeks? can't seem to remember 3 sandstorms in the last 5 years (apart from these ones) They must have all been happening in Mirdif then. ;) There were quite a few times I got in the car to drive to Uptown...then two min later turned around to come home because the visibility was so bad! At least a dozen times every 'shamal season'.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 09:10
Is it anything like breads served at the "Fern W Fekhar" takeaway outlets?? There's one at Uptown Mirdif. Sorry, I can't find a web page for them.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 07:39
Well, you've tried to do the polite neighbourly thing so if it continues to bother you, you have no choice but to take it further. I'm a big believer that nobody has the right to disturb the peace of other people in their own homes (outside of what's socially acceptable...local celebrations, a one-off party ending at a reasonable hour etc). Try the note under the door then back it up by calling security or the police. If it was my neighbours, I'd be putting the polite note under the door before the next lot of noise so you can call back-up in as soon as they drive you mad again. Good luck!!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 07:34
HI Doublestar, I'm having twins next week in AH, friend of mine advice to deliver or at least register in Al Wasl. I went there made an apt, I just wanted to ask questions, but they didn't want to speak without registering me, which cost 6,000AED for twins. Finally I spoke to customer service, [b'>one thing put me off is they don't have private rooms[/b'> and my hubby won't stay with me, because its more local hospital. I left and my Dr. in AH hospital told me that I don't really need to go to AL Wasl, I was already 24 weeks and Dr. said nothing going to happen I'm 36 weeks and 2 days today and I already booked for c-section in AH. Thanks Latifa (Al Wasl) does have private rooms...and rather posh they are! :) I'm not sure of the procedure now, but when I delivered there, mums expecting twins could pre-apply for a private room and would be given one if available. I was not high risk nor having twins so my husband had to apply when I arrived in labour. I spent a small amt of time on the shared ward then was moved to a VERY posh private room. Like I said below, if anyone wants to get anywhere with the staff at Latifa, insist on speaking to the Head of Antenatal Care or the Head of Midwifery. In the past these women have been amazing, patient and actually know what happens on the wards...unlike the clueless reception staff!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 13:47
Oh october! Deep breaths and a call to the agency I think. Either the maids shape up or get replaced!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 12:31
All are good if the goal of your diet is to lose weight. If you are on low sodium diet than you should pick the one that has the lowest amount of sodium (Na). This is written on the label. But then, it is much better to cut your salt intake then to be worried about type of water you're drinking. edited by Jass on 02/03/2012 The sodium content of bottled water is pretty irrelevant for adults really. To remain healthy in such an extreme climate it's important to take in enough salt in your diet. So, I don't think it makes any difference which brand you go for aline. Choose the one that tastes best to you.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 12:26
Have you contacted FF's or any of the other groups?
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 12:23
Have you tried talking to him directly? (or getting someone to do this for you if you feel intimidated for any reason?)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 12:20
When we had a part time maid, she worked for four hours, twice a week and in that time she cleaned our similar size villa inside and out (paths, windows and balconies) including ironing. Furniture was dusted or polished as needed, washing hung out, brought in and put away everything spotless. Lol...I worried I was working her to the bone. She said ours was her favourite house as the work was so easy! She got a bit extra on top of her cr*ppy agency pay.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 11:54
You really need to set boundarys, like yesterday. It is not your maids house, its yours. You run it, she assists. I have a fabulous maid who probably would do a better job than I can but it makes for bad dynamics if you allow her to take over Make each Sunday morning, review time. I sit down with the maid after hubby has gone to work on a Sunday and we plan our week. What meals we will have, what shopping we need and what I expect her to do etc. Its a good habit because if she does something we are not happy with, it gives you the opportunity to discuss it and how it could be done better in the future Great post KKS! Boundaries and constant, clear communication before anything gets out of hand!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 11:50
My first came at exactly 40 weeks, spontaneous delivery. (2nd at 39+5; 3rd at 39ish...lol...too busy to pay enough attention by then!)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 01 March 2012 - 18:02
My daughter's My Little Pony (the one with the hopelessly knotted mane and which I have been entrusted to untangle before daybreak).
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 01 March 2012 - 14:58
*LIKE* :D Lovely Sue62!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 01 March 2012 - 14:51
Oh the battle of keeping socks/shoes on! I hear you there. I have that battle at the moment with my 2 yr old. In fact, I think she's born naturalist as she objects to wearing any clothing at all! :D I loved the Bobux shoes because they protect their little soles, but seem to be so comfortable that my girls never objected to them. Although they are all leather, they have been worn in rain, mud and snow and wash up perfectly every time. :) Thats quiet funny! at 9 months DD can sort of undress herself, we were in ikea last week and I turned around to find her top half off! I could not help but giggle at her. Can I get the shoes here in Dubai or maybe even order from there? will they deliver here? They look super comfortable. ETA: the website is really helpful in terms of feet sizing. Very very informative. Thank you edited by moonbean on 01/03/2012 I don't know if you can get them in Dubai. I bought ours on visits to Australia. There is another brand which is very similar, and I believe just as good, that certainly used to be available in Dubai...off to research because the brand name escapes me!! When I was researching first shoes, I contacted the Bobux team and few times and they were very helpful. They may be happy to ship to you. :) ETA: http://www.justkidding-me.com/en/eshop/category,shoes - these are not the brand I was looking for (and very expensive!) but might be worth looking at Robeez! http://www.robeez.com - these are the ones I have read were available in Dubai. Hopefully someone will come along and confirm if they still are... <em>edited by Green-ish on 01/03/2012</em>
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 01 March 2012 - 14:44
Thanks everyone...I'll have a look and sort it. Sue62...no, NUTTER is not 'here' on EW. She doesn't even know I'm a member here. I've had a REALLY awful 24 hours with someone who should know much, much better and I am worried about repercussions for my children if she gets wind that I'm cutting her off. I'm aware it all sounds a bit childish but this has the potential to get very ugly and my babies are involved. Mother Lioness has kicked in I didn't want any well-meaning friends to post on FB in any way that might make things worse. Far out...sorry!!! I look like the nutter! lol
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 01 March 2012 - 07:13
Oh the battle of keeping socks/shoes on! I hear you there. I have that battle at the moment with my 2 yr old. In fact, I think she's born naturalist as she objects to wearing any clothing at all! :D I loved the Bobux shoes because they protect their little soles, but seem to be so comfortable that my girls never objected to them. Although they are all leather, they have been worn in rain, mud and snow and wash up perfectly every time. :)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 01 March 2012 - 07:10
Cleo4e/Green-ish would you mind terribly posting the email id/ no.s again? I'm desperate to find a driver for next week! Thank you! xx Sorry nnair...I don't have a contact any more. It would be two years since we last used him.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 14:11
OK...sorry calili...clearly an awful situation for you. Next time...agency for safety!
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 14:10
Hi greenish, hope you're doing well! Yes we had thought about taxis, but how do you find a good one? and how can you rely on them to be there as I understood they were not allowed to be privately hired? yes we do have a maid and she would go with the driver in any case as 2 small ones are a lot to handle! Sweetsugar - i will keep the thread posted in case we find a good solution! Hmmm...how to find one I'm not sure. We got lucky and came across a few good ones. My husband always called the same guy when we needed taxi's and if he couldn't come, he sent someone reliable. When my in-laws visited, they scored a great taxi driver...got his number and used him every day of their stay and they had a wonderful, private tour of Dubai. It's all done by the taxi meter, so I don't know why it would be a problem. I wonder if you'd have any luck calling the taxi company and talking to them?? ...and I'm really well thanks. :D
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 14:06
she should have been told she'd have to WORK for her return ticket. End of ..... Exactly...she should have but was she? Surely it's only fair that any potential employee knows the basic conditions of the job before signing her life away... it's in her contract that she signs isn't it?? Well, clearly this is a discussion that will go nowhere. How literate are these girls? Is it ensured that they understand what they are signing? CLEARLY this girl was distressed at the situation she found herself in so to me it's clear (and understandably frustrating for calili) that the girl had no idea of what to expect. I really do feel for calili...awful, expensive experience.
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 14:01
she should have been told she'd have to WORK for her return ticket. End of ..... Exactly...she should have but was she? Surely it's only fair that any potential employee knows the basic conditions of the job before signing her life away...
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 14:00
Jules...when my son was at school in Dubai, quite a few children were picked up in taxis. It was always the same taxi driver for each child/family. Do you have a maid? Often the family's maid was in the car with the taxi driver. Maybe you can find a taxi driver you trust and get him regularly?? Have you contacted the school to see if any of the other families can help you out?
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 13:56
Makes you wonder what these girls are told before they get on the plane to come over...
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 13:54
When we had enough money to go home and pay for our own accommodation, then yes...trips home were amazing holidays. Like snowy, I loved doing touristy things with the children and I let friends and family know where we were if they wanted to see us. Especially when we stayed in Western Australia near (or with!) my sister's family, I just adored watching all of the cousins play together and loved the long, daily chats about nothing with my gorgeous sister. When we had to stay with my in-laws or my mother...NOT a holiday! I love them all and love spending time with them...but living in their house with our children is not fun. For those of you still labouring around the country trying to catch up with family while on your 'holiday', why not remind them all that you've already done the international flight? The least they can do is pop in the car and drive to where you're staying! ;)
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 12:58
Until walking is really well established, bare feet is best. Bare feet allows them to feel the ground and work on proper balance. For outside (or cold weather!), very thin soled 'shoes' that allow bare feet movement are recommended. I'm not sure which brands are available in Dubai now, but I think until at least 12 months, you want to think about shoes like Bobux soft sole and similar styles - http://www.bobux.com.au/shop-online/girl-9-24-months/shoes/soft-sole Bobux are 100% leather and machine washable. The few pairs I bought were used by both of my daughters and a friend's children so they last very well. <em>edited by Green-ish on 29/02/2012</em>
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 10:43
Sounds like sciatica...very common in pregnancy. First site that came up on Google - http://www.backpain.com.au/index.php/sciatica.html
2340
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 10:41
Thanks for the idea Dan Lou but I am concerned about the origins of ready-packed mince - normally it is the leftover bits of the nicer cuts being sold as steaks, etc so I prefer to buy the fillet and leanest parts of the meat and cut up/mince myself at home. ... At any of the Spinney's with a butcher in-store, they will mince fresh meat for you. You choose your cuts and they mince it on the spot at no charge (well, it used to be no charge!). Other supermarkets probably offer the same service.