Hello.Again.Kitty | ExpatWoman.com
 

Hello.Again.Kitty

Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 27 March 2011 - 17:50
Mothercare also do white ones in packs of 3 - still really expensive, but slightly less so (per item) than for the themed ones. The have a cotton outer, with a thin plastic liner and then terry's towelling inner. I found them to be really useful. They're not designed to be able to take a whole wee, but to just not require a whole change of clothes if LO starts before they've got to the loo. As for if they do a poo in them, turn it inside out over the loo so that the contents falls out and then (still holding the pants) flush the toilet so that it gets a good surge of water over it. This is also pretty much the only use I've found for the little showers beside the loos!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 21:31
In the UK, where you only have 2 ultrasounds during a normal, uncomplicated pregnancy (12 weeks and 20 weeks), they use a doppler to check the baby's heartbeat at every appointment. I found that they were actually using the ultrasound just to check the heartbeat during my antenatal check-ups here, which at 180AED a pop is a very expensive overkill! OK, it's nice to see bubs jumping around (or not, cos they're often not doing much), but yes, I also think that "just in case", it's best to intervene as little as possible in every way. I'd also add that I don't remember my OB/Gyn here every doing a proper palpation to determine fundal height (or is it length), which makes me think that in fact, they are no longer experienced in anything but a heavy reliance on ultrasound. <em>edited by Hello.Again.Kitty on 24/03/2011</em>
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 March 2011 - 15:02
water births are great (I've heard) and I've also heard that Medcare does have a birthing pool, but I've also heard that they don't really know what to do (this was about 2 years ago, so hopefully they've had more training since) and so don't really let you use it, or don't let you actually give birth in it. If the facilities are there and the staff are properly trained (which you'd hope they were), there is no reason why you can't give birth in the water, as long as you've had a normal pregnancy and labour. It does, however, mean that you can't have an epidural, but those women I know who've had a water birth found the water helped to such an extent that they didn't need one. Call up the hospitals and see what facilities they have and what their policies are. That's the only real way you'll find out your options.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 March 2011 - 08:41
well, they are scrummy! A simple way to avoid giving them to her is not to have them in the house. My kids are fanatical about cheesy balls, but I don't every have any crisps in the house - apart from for parties, at which point they'll hijack the whole bowl. They can whinge and moan about it if they want, but it's not going to make anything materialise from thin air, but i do offer an alternative that's fun and that I'm happy with. At the moment we're getting through dried mango and kiwi (yes, there's still sugar added, but of well!) and rice cakes with the Dalfour jam that's made with fruit sugars.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 March 2011 - 08:32
Sorry didn't get there in time, but Kurkuman is absolutely lovely. They're in the bottom of The Waves tower and do Afghan/ Berluchistani/ Peshawar food. Really nice and the staff are fabulous.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 19:03
well, the Marina Raffles is right next to the Marina Metro stop. <em>edited by Hello.Again.Kitty on 22/03/2011</em>
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 15:58
When DD goes through growth spurts and I turn into a human feeding machine, I normally tank up on natural yoghurt & almonds!!! They are "good" fats and a great way to increase calories for the hungry critters :) Keeps them fuller for longer! I also cut out any expressing as this will make them unnecessarily engorged, as her constant feeding is enough to empty them every time and keep my milk supply up - if you get my drift?!?! HTH who needs "good" fats when you can have cake?! hehehe
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:15
We had a breakthrough last night and DS nursed at his 3 am feed!!! I don't know if this is back to normal or not, but it's definitely a step in the right direction. Thanks so much for all your help - I was really stressed out about this and it helped to know others have been here and to have some ideas. yay!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 13:14
@Hello.Again.Kitty Could you give me more details about your agency, please? I've googled and googled for MCS and can't find a mention of them (except yours)! I'd like someone to come in 3 x 2hrs a week, rather than 1 x 6hrs or 2 x 4hrs, so MCS sounds good to me. Thanks in advance. I've got 4 numbers for them, so see which one works! MCS Group (cleaners, babysitters, party servers, kitchen helpers) 30AED/h (2011) 043494177 043494366 0561013783 0555411510 My usual cleaner is an absolute gem of a woman, as straight as a die, honest, professional and happy. She was ill, so they sent a replacement, who was so, so sweet too - turns out she was a biology teacher in the Phillipines. As always though, just do the round with them, explaining what you want done and what you don't want done and be at peace with the fact that no one can clean quite the same way as you do. Point out any OCD-like details (mine's plug-holes) and at the end of the first couple of sessions (once they've gone) jot down any points you need tweaked, and let them know the following week. My cleaner never needs to be told twice and does a lot on her own initiative. Being a bit sneaky, I think it's actually worth getting them in for just enough time. I know that if I'm told I have 4 hours to do a job that really would only take me 2, I'd find a few extra things to do, but generally take longer to do it!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 21:45
mine never did do poos at night... apart from a couple of times when it was a case of changing absolutely everything on them and the bed! lol
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 21:44
DD was 2 and a half last summer when she went to stay with MIL for 8 days with DH. I missed her loads but DD seemed happy enough with just DH being there. She didn't really take to MIL but I think thats cause granny was trying just a touch too hard with her. Prior to that DH only really did the nice, fun things with DD. DH now appreciates its not easy being on your own with DD 24/7! After reading your post, I really feel like sending her. It would give me a break too. I am alone with 2 LOs on my own coz DH travels a lot. I hope my DH would come away with the same feeling after that. Well then do it! It also sounds like your DH would like to spend some quality time with his daughter, now that she's that little bit older... especially if he doesn't get much time with her usually. It'll be a good bonding session for both of them... and you'll hardly know yourself, "only" having to deal with 1 child!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 21:39
I think it serves both purposes tbh... it'd be logical for bubs to need more the bigger and more active he gets, but I think the cluster feeding is also something they just get over. I see it in my toddlers - occasionally they're turn (not at the same time) into ravenous eating machines for a day or two and then calm down to their normal intake - which is gradually increasing.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 19:45
Good to know , when I hear and have seen on TV the naughty step approach I do wonder at times ? as the odd smack can work. Thankfully I did not need to, only a few times but admit harness / hand straps made it easier to handle children especially in a large supermarket or walking on streets , crossing pavements etc etc. Yes I have had my children throw tatrums and yes i dealt with it and think the odd smack does help but modern parents are not allowed to do this. but modern parents are still allowed to give the occasional smack - at least in the UK. Ok, it's not the "sound thrashing" of yesteryear, but the police aren't going to swoop down instantly on a parent who give just enough of a shock so as to stop the unwanted behaviour. well, imo a smack as punishment not only doesn't work, but teaches the child a set of life-rules that to be honest is likely to confuse them more - the scenario where a parent smacks a child as punishment for hitting another child is a case in point. Er... step back and what is it actually teaching? That it's OK to hit if you're bigger than the one being hit and "have a good reason to do so"... for a child, a "good reason" could well be something like "he took my toy"! However, a physical signal to stop doing something quickly is effective, especially when they are in a dangerous situation and not quite in control of themselves. As someone who is prone to lashing out (if I let myself), I feel that getting physical with a child is a sign of the adult's own weakness... a sign that they, for whatever reason aren't able to control themselves or channel their anger/frustration in appropriate ways. Ironic then, that we're talking about tantrums, which are a toddler's version of the very same problem! We are role models to our children every waking moment (no pressure then!) and how we deal with difficult situations is the biggest lesson our children learn from us. <em>edited by Hello.Again.Kitty on 21/03/2011</em>
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 18:11
big hugs to you hun! I hope you got my email.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 17:55
Could you get a double stroller through the door on the feeder bus? Yeah, definitely! It's one of the standard issue accessible buses with the double doors in the middle. Drivers will often lower the bus for you and if they've parked a bit too far from the curb, there's a flip-up ramp that you can use. The only thing is that the first Dubai Mall stop has the "accessible" door line up with a big fat column, so it'd be either worth suggesting the driver advances a bit or get out at the second Dubai Mall stop which is more open. Another thing is that you're unlikely to make many friends because you'll probably have to park the buggy in the double doorway. The do have a disabled/ buggy bay, but there's a bracket that sticks out, so I'm not sure if it leaves the width of a double side-by-side stroller to get in. Saying that, it should do, seeing as it needs to be wheelchair width!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 17:17
does metro go directly to ibn battuta like MOE or a cab is required? edited by manubhadauria on 21/03/2011 just cross the road :) lol - yes... that should be "just cross the multi-lane bus station, then the 4 lane road with dodgy pedestrian phase and then negotiate the lawned area where there are no paths to get to the entrance of the mall!" Great with a buggy! I did Dubai Mall the other day and tbh, the feeder bus is fabulous. It's right outside the Metro station and takes about 3 minutes to drop you off at the mall. MotE is by far the easiest. But going back from Dubai Mall on the feeder bus is a pain as it does the scenic route!!!! sure, it's longer, but not hugely... and you're in a bus, not walking through an assault course! I'll have to venture to BurJuman actually... if it's that accessible there's hope!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 17:15
i could do that... i am still expressing.. i just need LO to used to formula for when i wean him off at 1 year he has been exclusivley breast fed until Sunday this week where i tired to give him formula as BFC said... there's no reason why a child that's breastfed to 1 year old should ever have any formula. Neither of mine did. They just went straight to cow's milk. I work full time and for 7 and a half months i used up all my breaks to express.. i am tired.. very tired! as of today i am going to stop expressing, i will BF my now 9 month old baby In the morning and at night, but no more expressing when I am at work to make up stock for the next day.. i spoke to a midwife yesterday and she recommended I use hip organic formula, this will be the 3rd if not the 4th brand I try with my DS.. he is just not liking the taste.. if that doesn’t work then I am going to try NAN.. Where can I get hip organic formula from? I havnt seen them in the supermarket. Thanks, FM I think the Organic Food & Cafe do it - they seem to have most of the range. I have to say though, you really are a superstar for expressing so much - I could never have done what you have - both mentally and physically. People often say how good it is to have breastfed for a year, but for me, all those compliments should be going to women like you, who've shown such dedication and perseverance with your choice. Wow.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 17:09
DS did that when he was 7 months old, which got me really worried. We were flying back to the UK and he refused to feed during the flight and continued after for 18 hours. The next day, I just popped him on every half hour to one hour to get my supply back up (I wasn't pumping) and he started feeding again, but actually, never the same again. During the day, he'd feed morning and evening with nothing in between (caught up with 3 feeds at night though until he was 11 months! Grr!), but as I was feeding on demand, I just went with it. He didn't waste away and was/ is happy and healthy. The change... their needs change. My DD self-weaned at 11.5 months and again, she didn't waste away. If you're pumping, maybe try giving some milk in a sippy cup? Can but try!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 17:03
does metro go directly to ibn battuta like MOE or a cab is required? edited by manubhadauria on 21/03/2011 just cross the road :) lol - yes... that should be "just cross the multi-lane bus station, then the 4 lane road with dodgy pedestrian phase and then negotiate the lawned area where there are no paths to get to the entrance of the mall!" Great with a buggy! I did Dubai Mall the other day and tbh, the feeder bus is fabulous. It's right outside the Metro station and takes about 3 minutes to drop you off at the mall. MotE is by far the easiest.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 16:56
Yes I have had my children throw tatrums and yes i dealt with it and think the odd smack does help but modern parents are not allowed to do this. but modern parents are still allowed to give the occasional smack - at least in the UK. Ok, it's not the "sound thrashing" of yesteryear, but the police aren't going to swoop down instantly on a parent who give just enough of a shock so as to stop the unwanted behaviour. Anyhow, seeing your other medical help related posts... it reminded me of another incident with Her Ladyship. She was having a tantrum outside a lift, flat on her back, kicking and screaming and I was crouched down over her trying to get to the bottom of the problem. Anyhow, a very lovely young woman, looking very concerned, asked me if I needed any help. When I smiled and replied "no thanks, we're used to it", she said "are you sure? Should I call a doctor or something?". It took me a few seconds to realise that she thought my daughter was having a proper fit so I reassured her that it was just what it was and we had a little laugh about it... ironically while DD was still doing her thing on the floor!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 23:25
DD never did anything wrong in public, she was terrified of strangers. DS was permanently connected to a 5 point harness until he was able to put it in writing that he would do as he was told. I was ticked off by women who questioned me attaching his harness to the seat at the front of the grocery cart....LIKE HELLLLLLLLLO......this boy can fly. It's ridiculous isn't it? There was a time when children and babies wore a harness all the time as the norm, now mothers who put them on are looked at as if they were members of the Gestapo. lol - if I could, I'd harness both my two, attach them to the buggy and get them to pull me along like a small dog-team! Nothing wrong with setting them to work, surely?! lol Gleeky - no-one has ever commented that Her Ladyship will get sick if I leave her prostrate on the floor. I'm not entirely sure what to conclude on that one! lol Still, we seem to be over the mad tantrums now. Guess what worked? Asking her to explain what was bugging her *in words* [smacks forehead'> SIMPLES!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 22:48
well, she's not really on her own if she's with her Dad... and if he's not used to doing all the itty-bitty things you usually do, then he's got a bit of a shock coming! lol! Maybe couch it that way... "are you SURE you want to look after her on your own for 2 whole weeks, dear?!" My MiL is around about the same age and bless her, now has trouble keeping up with my two... not through want of trying though.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 10:23
Dubai is rubbish for P&Ts and even when you can get them, they're twice the price of the UK! Have you got anyone coming over from the UK shortly, who could do you the immense favour of bringing one over? Kiddicare do some of the best prices around, but don't deliver internationally.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 10:22
sprinkle it with bicarb and leave overnight... that's my new thing for anything smelly... apart fromt eh children, that is.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 22:36
HAK - I like u sometimes, i dont like u sometimes. But always like ur straight forward approach :) hehe! ;)
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 22:29
well, I didn't see the original post, but you know what, if I'd been there, I would have offered some help... and maybe even ushered her off for a coffee afterwards. This is from someone whose DD's last major public tantrum drew spectators and when, through hyperventilating screams, she indicated that she was then going to wet herself in the middle of the passageway, saw me, with 13kg of DS unceremoniously rugby-balled under one arm, drag DD along to the toilets (she refused to walk), again screaming to the extent that a security guard loitered outside, presumably to make sure that I wasn't actually killing her. Out of all the staring bystanders, NOT ONE offered to help out, not even to hold DS's hand when he was trying to run away. I can tell you right now, that if any one of them had muttered that I was a bad mum at that point, I would have told them that they can deal with it and gladly walked off. If any of you out there have a tantrumming child in a public place and a brunette 30-something gives you a sympathetic smile... it's me.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 22:09
As the others have said - it depends on what you want and what you need - for yourself and for your family. We can't have it all. None of us can... not even our men-folk can. There are only so many hours in the day and we can only be in one place at once, so it boils down to where you set your personal priorities for this particular point in time. Where I grew up, there was a saying - "you work to live, not live to work"... so would your work fit in with what you want in your life? If bedtime is important, could you negotiate coming home earlier on certain days? I'm a SAHM with a very demanding career very much on hold - which isn't to say I'm sat at home twiddling my thumbs or letting my braincells go to mush. Keeping in touch with who we are as pre-children people is so, so important - it's about finding a balance. If you want to advance your career, absolutely go for it - for as long as you feel you're maintaining that balance. A happy mum, even one who is away for part of the day, is far better than an unhappy/ bored mum who's present 24/7. Your children will learn a lot from your behaviour and outlook regardless.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 21:58
My 2 are 21 months apart (got pg when DD was 1) and yes, it's a bit of a shock to start off with, but you get into a routine and just deal with it. I didn't have family or a helper either. Now, my two are just adorable together - they play really well and love each other to bits. Still drive me wild on occasion - especially when they're both let loose and decide to run off in opposite directions and refuse to stop, but on the plus side, you lose your pregnancy weight quicker! DS is now 21 months and I'm feeling a bit broody... :\:
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 21:53
I love Sanita Bambi. I tried all the supermarket brands here, and pampers with various leakage, bursting issues. I refused to buy Huggies because of the waste - so expensive for something that's only going to get wee'd/ poo'd on! Anyhow, yes... Sanita Bambi. Love 'em.... and they don't feel filled with pellets either. A nice solid nappy.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 21:50
Just to update (in case anyone is interested). Had my apointment on Wednesday, Dr did an internal exam (lovely)... he said babys head was fully engaged and he could feel the babys head during the exam. Still no baby yet... got another apointment tomorrow morning to get a CTG scan. I know i should be enjoying the peace and quiet while i can but its such a chore doing anything, cant get comfy, hard to waddle anywhere and definately lacking sleep already. Thanks for the responses! Lock and load, baby! :) Yay! Awww... I wish I was pregnant again. I love this bit!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 21:48
Oh, sharing is difficult! I have a theory that even adults don't really know how to share - we just don't want the same toy with quite such passion, and if we do, we just go and buy one for ourselves! With DD, I instigated early on "if you want to play with DS's toy, give him something else to play with", so it was more swapping than sharing, but the result was the same - 2 happy children. This worked really well - and still does, to a certain extent. Now that DS is old enough to know his mind and big enough to enforce it, DD doesn't get her way quite so often, but I've used that to instil another life lesson (apart from "don't do that or he'll hit you!"), which is "taking turns". Nursery is also teaching her about taking turns, so she seems quite happy with that. As for hitting, that, I'm afraid, gets me coming down like a ton of bricks, regardless of the cause or situation. Hitting is not acceptable under any circumstances, so whatever form of discipline you do (we do Time Out), then enforce it then. In fact, it's often quite a handy way of enforcing the sharing/swapping/taking turns lesson, because LO can only go back to playing once s/he's understood that sharing/ swapping/ taking turns is the only way to have fun! If the toy is snatched, I give it back to the child it was taken from, addressing the snatching child and saying, "no, X was playing with that. Bring him another toy to play with if you want it/ it's his turn at the moment". However, if the situation deteriorates into both children crying/ screaming, then the toy is obviously too much trouble for either of them, so I take it away and introduce them to something they can play with together.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 21:37
Aww EmmaH, I know the feeling, all us mums do. You are so excited to meet your little one and soooo uncomfortable by now. From about the 37 week mark I just wanted so badly for my baby to hurry up and make her grand entrance but it wasn't to be. She was born at 1 day after my due date. I have been so thankful every single day since that she was not born before my due date. Not that there is anything wrong with the bubs that are (of course not) but I really think that its something kind of wonderful for a baby to stay inside the womb and come when he/she is ready, even if that means going past the due date. So long as the baby going past the due date isn't affecting yours or the baby's health then feel very blessed that your baby has stayed inside your womb for the full duration of your pregnancy. Good luck and cherish EVERY second BEFORE the baby's birth, and after! Before you know it you'll be planning his/her 1st birthday party! :D The due date is a bit of a funny one anyway. It's just a date that happens to be in the middle of what's considered to be the "at term" period - so anything from 38 to 42 weeks is perfectly normal and healthy... indeed, the duration of our gestations depends on our cycles - some have 28 day cycles, some 26, some 30, although the due date is calculated on the average 28 day cycle. One size fits some, and all that!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 21:32
@dessert princess, really? If I put my back into it I think I could do a good job in 4 hours if I was getting paid, is it that they just don't do it quickly? I can blitzy current 3 bed in about 2 hours if I put my mind to it but thought I'd try an agency to do it for me - perhaps I will continue to do it myself!! yes, my cleaner does our medium sized 2 bed in 2 hours. I tidy up beforehand so she's got a free run to actually clean, but she does it all. When we go on holiday for a couple of weeks, she splits the load and gives it all a proper spring clean. Basically, I'd be concerned if a "professional" cleaner takes longer to do tasks than I do. I guess it also depends what you consider to be a normal clean and a spring clean. I wouldn't expect the bathroom walls to be cleaned from top to bottom every week, for example, but some people would, and that's fine too!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 08:31
We use MCS, who don't have a min 4 hours criteria. My lovely cleaning lady comes round for 2 hours every week and I do spot sweeps/ cleans between time (occasionally). She "just" does the cleaning though, no ironing or laundry.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 March 2011 - 00:21
What is your understanding of organic ? Chickens in the UK are not always the best and how many buyers are fooled by the people they deal with and do not even realise it. Who really ubderstands the term organic ? I do. For me, it'd be a product that has been produced without using commercial pesticides, fertilisers or GM elements, in a manner that respects the environment and is sustainable. In terms of production, it also involves not using any artificial colourings, flavourings or other additives. I would also argue that you have to also consider food miles as part of the organic process, so the act of shipping/ flying "organic" produce half way across the world to put on our shelves goes against the philosophy behind it. I know that the Soil Association (UK) has amongst the most rigorous criteria in Europe, so I trust that above all other organic certifications. For example, a farm needs a 3 year transition before being able to call its produce "organic". French organic certification allow some pesticides that the UK doesn't. In essence, it's the kind of food you would be able to produce at home (if you had lots of land and an amazing herb garden!). Oh, and just a little gem to finish... did you know that Xanthan gum is produced from the secretions of a bacteria that grows on cabbages? Hmmm.... yummy! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xanthan_gum <em>edited by Hello.Again.Kitty on 17/03/2011</em>
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 20:38
Chickens in the UK are not always the best and how many buyers are fooled by the people they deal with and do not even realise it. Who really ubderstands the term organic ? I do. Consumers aren't as stupid or powerless as some providers would like to believe. I don't know if you were there or saw the chicken thing in the UK, but basically it kicked off with a wonderful BBC documentary educating the public about the processes and putting the big supermarket chains on the spot. Properly on the spot... and demanding explanations. The public outcry was such that the supermarkets had to change. They do still keep pumped up chicken and whatnot as their basic range, and the price shows that, but the consumer can choose what they go with. Recently there was another documentary (can't remember if it was Panorama or Dispatches) that looked into the conditions of chickens that then went on the supply the various Tescos ranges. It was properly warts and all and got Tesco to make an official announcement to try and curb the inevitable backlash.. Another one would be Jamie Oliver's School Dinners. Obviously, this kind of thing falls on some deaf ears who either don't mind or don't care, but there were enough of us signing the subsequent petition to get the government to change schools' policy.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 20:30
is it the multiple choice scenario-based one like most of Europe has been implementing for the last 15-odd years? If so, then it's not hard. You just need to have a bit of common sense. Hmm... that could be a problem for some! OK, if common sense fails you, choose the most boring option. So, for example if you get a question like: [i'>You are driving in the fast lane and quickly approaching the car in front. Do you: A/ continue at your current speed and flash your lights to let the driver in front know you are approaching. B/ continue at your current speed, get really close and beep your horn to encourage him to move out of your way C/ overtake him using the hard shoulder D/ slow down to maintain an appropriate safety distance[/i'> (it's D, by the way) ;) <em>edited by Hello.Again.Kitty on 16/03/2011</em>
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:59
....50AED for 2 organic chicken breasts. ... Depending on their size, that's not 'expensive'. It's just that the rubbish chicken available in the supermarkets is disturbingly cheap in Dubai. I always wondered just how anyone up the chain from the supermarkets actually got paid for the chicken when it's so cheap on the shelf... With apologies for the Australian comparison, we're paying 50dhs or more per kilo for supermarket chicken here. Organic chicken is over 100dhs per kilo. yeah, you see, in the UK we pay about £11/ kg for supermarket chicken (which is no longer pumped full of gunk and water since there was a public outcry a few years back) and £15/kg for organic. I love UK supermarkets!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:54
It depends. Hospital grade pumps are fine second-hand, as each user buys a separate "kit." All other pumps are single-user only. There's also the possibility that it may wear out (as most do, eventually) soon after resale. yeah, my second-hand one cracked after a few months of use, so I had to ditch it since I couldn't guarantee it was sterile (well, it basically couldn't be!)... BUT... buyer beware and all that.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:52
she's happy to see you?! lol As for discipline, she does understand more than you possibly think. OK, she will only understand the immediate "this makes me happy/ unhappy/ angry" and basic commands, so stick with them when appropriate. Mean what you say and continue praising good behaviour. If my daughter's anything to go by, this "phase" lasts until they're about 3.5 years old! lol
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:49
Thanks for the replies, I don't know if its muscle pain its my upper back? As I seemed to really notice it a few weeks ago pulling some sheets off and bed then it took 3 weeks plus Osteopath to feel somewhat better although still sore and now this morning I turned to pick up a bottle for my baby and the pain is back as before :( I'm going tomorrow to the Osteopath but do agree maybe I need and xray to see if there is something underlying. Wonder if there are any excersies to do as perhaps the muscle has weakend due to no lifting in Pregnancy and then no lifting 6 weeks post birth due to c section? Ask your osteopath for some physio exercises specific to what s/he feels is wrong. Mine (Lauren) did for my hips and she sorted me out completely.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:47
i could do that... i am still expressing.. i just need LO to used to formula for when i wean him off at 1 year he has been exclusivley breast fed until Sunday this week where i tired to give him formula as BFC said... there's no reason why a child that's breastfed to 1 year old should ever have any formula. Neither of mine did. They just went straight to cow's milk.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:10
impossible task!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:08
I took the ingredients list issue here up with Waitrose in the UK and bless them, they took it very seriously (maybe it was my irate argument of how detrimental it was to their brand image to sell something that they would never dare to in the UK!)... anyhow, the long and the short of it is that local suppliers had too high a salmonella incidence, so they had to import frozen halal chicken, which then *had* to go through a marinating process to make it palatable. o_O They then agreed that the packaging should be changed to show it was defrosted meat, which in fairness they have done since my email. Anyhow, I now only buy "fresh" chicken breasts from Al Maya. They are plump, but remain firm and at least don't ooze gunk! I simply can't justify paying 50AED for 2 organic chicken breasts. We now also eat a lot of fish... and pork sausages (again from Al Maya since they brought in a proper sausage butcher!) Saying that, I try not to buy anything formed - so burgers, meat-balls, even the kofta meat or pre-marinaded kebab bits. I now make it all myself, so at least I know what goes into it. This came after the rather surreal experience of buying burgers that didn't change colour with cooking - they stayed a very raw pink even when they were cooked through (too cooked for my liking, but it was weird!)
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 11:43
Yep, it all sounds about right...I hate when people back home assume living in Dubai is cheap, like we are lording it up over here. Some things, like having helpers is cheaper than back home. And gas is cheaper. But really, food is more expensive here, going out is more expensive-think of what you pay for a drink..or even a diet coke at a hotel bar. And also the pampering stuff i find to be the same price as back home if not more expensive here. I used to get a non funghal pedicure/manicure for 20 bucks, 15 bucks if it was monday-wed. Thats like 80 aed? Whereas here I pay 80 for just a pedicure and its often not that great because the person doing it has no licenses or training... hehe - my FiL was in awe of the Waitrose supermarket here, and went as far as to say "ooo, this puts the UK stores to shame!"... I just couldn't help myself and replied something along the lines of "are you kidding?! A third of the range that's in the UK for twice or 4 times the price?! Don't think so!" For me it's also about being able to trust what you buy. It seems to be getting better here, but still... don't get me started on chicken breasts! Oh how i miss good chicken and meat that doesnt taste gamey! I know what you mean, your FIL would **** himself if he went to like a super walmart or a big whole foods. We've got lovely supermarkets in he UK... and lovely farmer's markets, organic markets... everything. /cry more
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 11:42
I'm surprised they didn't push to have bubs whipped out at 38 weeks! They'll probably suggest something today. I know my OB/Gyn was surprised when I told her I went 2 days over with my first... she would have had a fit with me going 8 days over with my second! Oh, and don't believe the hype if they start telling you that bubs needs to come out because "it's too big"/ "your placenta is ageing"/ [insert scary-sounding reason here'>. These are exciting times for you - in any which way, it's only a matter of days. In the UK, they will offer you 2 sweeps after your due date and then discuss hospitalised induction for your 41st week *in the case of a normal, uncomplicated pregnancy*. I was booked in for induction at 40+10, but had my second sweep at 40+8 and that did the trick.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 11:37
Yep, it all sounds about right...I hate when people back home assume living in Dubai is cheap, like we are lording it up over here. Some things, like having helpers is cheaper than back home. And gas is cheaper. But really, food is more expensive here, going out is more expensive-think of what you pay for a drink..or even a diet coke at a hotel bar. And also the pampering stuff i find to be the same price as back home if not more expensive here. I used to get a non funghal pedicure/manicure for 20 bucks, 15 bucks if it was monday-wed. Thats like 80 aed? Whereas here I pay 80 for just a pedicure and its often not that great because the person doing it has no licenses or training... hehe - my FiL was in awe of the Waitrose supermarket here, and went as far as to say "ooo, this puts the UK stores to shame!"... I just couldn't help myself and replied something along the lines of "are you kidding?! A third of the range that's in the UK for twice or 4 times the price?! Don't think so!" For me it's also about being able to trust what you buy. It seems to be getting better here, but still... don't get me started on chicken breasts!
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 11:33
think about noise levels. Do your ears ring after a concert? Mine certainly do, and they aren't sensitive and developing still. Also, think about bubs' bedtime. Going to a concert is a bit different from being able to sleep in the buggy while you have a nice quiet meal out... is it fair? Are you prepared to hold a screaming baby for the duration? Basically, I wouldn't.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 11:30
yup, unfortunately, you either have to live with it, adapt to it or learn to make your own! I find that I shop at at least two different places. C4 is having a sale on baby rice cereal and diapers-so I load up. I hit spinneys on monday's and get meat and fresh veg. C4 for canned goods/dried pasta/tomat/household cleaning products Its time consuming but if I didnt do that I would easily be spending 1000's at spinneys. Out of curiosity what are people's weekly grocery bill? My household is three adults, a baby and dog. I would ay we spend 500-650 weekly, on average. edited by NYCDoll on 16/03/2011 We have a weekly rota because I've found that the exact same product can be double the price at one supermarket than at another. Geant and Lulus are my favourites, but Carrefour's baking stuff is cheaper than anywhere else. I only get stuff rarely from Waitrose any more, and even then only the Waitrose own branded stuff (more reliable I find)... and then good old Al Maya for the "pop to the shops" bits and wonderful, scrummy pork sausages! Beacuse of the rota, I work out my monthly groceries, which is always between 1500-2250 per month, with maybe another 500 for household consumables (nappies, washing powder, loo roll...). We're a family of 4.
Hello.Again.Kitty
1861
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 11:14
yup, unfortunately, you either have to live with it, adapt to it or learn to make your own!
 
 
UAE Family Law 2026 | Divorce, Custody & Personal Status Guide for Expat Residents

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

Best music schools for kids in Dubai | Aureus Academy UAE

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai | Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Top Online Schools in the UAE for Kids and Teenagers: CambriLearn

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

How to get a divorce in Dubai as an expat resident

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Kisari Kids - Awareness Parenting Coach Eva Szorad Interview

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real