KellsBells | ExpatWoman.com
 

KellsBells

KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 September 2011 - 21:35
Whats the demo setting.Mine plays 4 songs and its face lights up for all of 3 secs, could this be it? Grrrr! there should be a switch at the back to take it off demo or switch to lights only, if like me you are sick of accidentally bumping it on just after DS has gone to sleep. Thanks had a look this morning and cant believe ive missed it, its been washed 100 times! lol. Thanks nutty, you made me feel heaps better. I took two weeks to realize there must be more to this much raved about toy. In the end I googled it and voilà, there's a switch at the back ;-)
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 September 2011 - 19:24
Saw them in Carrefour in MCC last month.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 September 2011 - 15:53
I've just read that you are in AR (thread about the dog barking near gate 4 ;-) ) I'm in Saheel too, near gate 4 (and NO - I don't own a dog) if u fancy popping in for a coffee, drop me a mail. Youngest DS is 10.5 months but That doesn't matter. <em>edited by KellsBells on 01/09/2011</em>
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 September 2011 - 15:49
6 months is still very young. Try remember that this is all very new to your DH, not an excuse I know, but try understand that this is a major change in his life, and unlike a mother, fathers often don't develop the bond until later. I wouldn't start by dumping DD on him for a morning. Take baby steps and I'd suggest working around the times DD is happiest. ie. After a good sleep and a feed. Leaving him to deal with a tired, cranky, hungry baby is only going to push him further away. I know to some this sounds crazy, why should we have to pussy-foot around them, they are as much responsible for these little people as we are, but the truth ofthe matter is -men and woman ARE different and the time shared with baby (in and out the womb) up until now, has been mostly with you so that bond and sense of responsibility is probably stronger for you than him. Good luck.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 September 2011 - 11:18
Is this the lullaby Glow Worm? I think I saw them at Toys R Us, it was about a month ago though. DS loves his... Now that I finally realized it was on the demo setting and changed it. Lol
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 September 2011 - 11:13
Nope. All good here. In saheel.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 September 2011 - 09:21
What a horrible situation to be in. I can see why you would want to help him, but I have a feeling he is taking advantage of you both now, and like other posters have said, he's running away from his problems - he needs to man up and face his wife. Has she had the baby? Is he leaving her alone with the baby? Drunk? Very hard situation indeed but I have to be honest and say if it was me, I'd send him home to his wife...don't they have a spare room? It's not fair that your marriage take this sort of strain because they are unable to sort theirs out. Explain to him that you will always be there for emotional support, but the hiding out at yours has to stop. He needs to face the music. All the best
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 September 2011 - 09:13
I have to remind DH every so often that he's still a father ;-) How old is your DD? I found with our first, DH didn't actually become that involved until DS was talking and able to interact more. Second time round he's done less of waking up with the baby and helping with feeds, but he's been more of a father figure from the start. Don't nag him (DH goes cold when I do ;-) ) but just for example, ask him before bed on a weekend night if he'd like to get up with DD and give her her breakfast... Say, "she'd really enjoy Daddy doing it and I could really use a lie in." See how it goes.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 31 August 2011 - 20:16
Have seen them at Home Center, recently. Much cheaper then Pottery Barn or C & B.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 31 August 2011 - 16:23
Any news officechick? Holding thumbs you got the outcome you were hoping for.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 31 August 2011 - 15:47
I, like HAK am a "Villa person". I love opening my door onto a garden especially in the cooler months. It's great to just open all door and let the kids go wild, not to mention the fab BBQ's you could have ;-) My DS love the garden and outdoors too... They cry to go out, so I could never imagine us being happy in an apartment.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 22:55
I had an epidural at Welcare in 2007 and then one last year at City Hospital, and I have to say... The one at welcare was more painful, took longer to administer and left me feeling a bit sore. The one at city was fab. Completely different.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 22:49
I sent my son when he turned 3. He went to the Emirates British Nursery in Mirdif and loved it. It's a gorgeous school with some fab teachers. More expensive then all the oters in Mirdif but after visiting them all I found it was the only one I would feel happy sending my DS to.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 22:37
Great news.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 17:19
I've always been a Chanel girl, but recently bought Bvlgari for no other reason then the fact that I loved the frames and I have to say, they are fab. The lenses are really good.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 August 2011 - 17:15
Don't know about Posh Paws but I wouldn't send my babies to DKC ever again. Used them frequently before and they just kept getting worse. Our cats blankets would go missing or come back with dog hairs on and their toys had been chewed by dogs (???) They also came back sick quite a few times. This was a while back, but I still wouldn't go back.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 21:48
Hi and welcome. You will meet many people through this board and coffee mornings I'm sure. If I was you, I'd seriously look at Arabian Ranches. We have just moved here after being in Mirdif for 9 years. We love it. The community is lovely and established and the pools and parks are great. I feel very safe here which is important as my DH works nightshifts. There is a golf club which hosts quiz nights and has a gym and pool (u pay to be a member), polo club, motor city nearby with resturants and a community center with some coffee shops and resturants/take away places and a supermarket within AR. There Is a nursery in the Saheel development and one at the polo club. Then also ones in Motor City and Sports City so not far. Good luck with the house hunting and the move. Hope it goes smoothly for you.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 16:34
Kellsbells - the owner of Sandypants lives on the Ranches so if she's around you may be able to get one in a flash She's actually in Europe right now... But that didn't stop her helping me out and arranging that I can pick it up in a bit. Excellent.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 16:33
You ladies (and EW) rock!!!! I've just called SandyPants and they are going to text me and let me know what time I can go collect the booster...and it's just down the road!!! So after nearly 2 hours of calling South Africa, useless Toys R Us here and tossing up whether to chuck my boys in the car and head out on a search - the whole saga ends with EW coming to the rescue. Whew. One happy mummy. Thanks again ladies. I can start getting excited about my travels now.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 16:09
Your welcome to borrow mine, I did the same bought it for DS to take on holiday. I am near mirdif [email protected] Oh Laura, you're so kind. We used to be in Mirdif...this would have saved my day. In the Ranches and like I say, both my boys are playing up - full on tantrums...more then likely something to do with the fact that for the last hours or so i have been on the laptop and /or phone :-( Wish I'd thought of it earlier!!! I always leave things till the last minute! Thanks again for your kind offer though.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 16:07
Thank you. No reply and the landline no seems to be a fax. Finally got through to TR Us Times Square, they have...but my children are being menacing and going out with them now will only spell disaster. So I'm still trying (an hour later) to get Festival City branch to answer their phone so DH can pick one up after work.... Will try your lady again now just incase.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 15:27
Ladies I've been trying to get through to someone at Toys R Us for ages now...I'm due to travel tomorrow morning with my 2 LO's and starting to panic at the amount of stuff i have to take. Thinking of getting a blow up BubbleBum booster for oldest DS. I saw them in Toys R Us Festival City a few weeks ago, but I'm trying to find out if they still have them or if the branch in Times Square might have them as it's closer to me. Can anyone help? Have you seen them there or anywhere else recently? Thanks
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 10:24
Oh honey, I hear you. Though I don't have twins and I do drive. I'm feeling very similar right now. My saving grace is that DS starts school (FS1) in September and it'll give me time to breath - eventhough DS 2 will still be home ... 1 is so much easier. I take my hat off to you, you sound like you are doing a wondeful job. But you really could do with a "time out". You need to let your DH know how you are feeling. Has he ever taken care of the girls on his own for a few hours? Maybe let him and he might get an idea of what you go through everyday. He probably doesn't have a clue how snowed under you are feeling right now. Men are useless. Sometimes we have to draw pictures to get them to understand ;-) How about sending the girls just 2/3 mornings a week to nursery? Or getting an agency maid in to spend some time with them while you relaxed? Once they get to know her better and you feel comfortable, you could leave them for a few hours and pop out! So much easier getting a taxi when it's just you. As for the milk. My two are terrible eaters too. They love their milk. 3 year old still drinks out a bottle before bed. I used to beat myself up about it... But now I'm just like, you know what - it's not going to continue till he's 18 and it's not great for his teeth but it makes him happy and it's certainly not the end of the world so, ho-hum. And the eating... They won't let themselves starve. Offer a meal, leave it infront of them for 20 minutes or so, if they don't eat it, clear it away and don't give them snacks until the next meal time. Then do the same, if they don't eat, clear it away. Don't force them to eat and don't use bribery... Not because I've read it leads to a bad attitude towards food but because I've found that it really doesn't work. Hope I've said something that might help. Know that you are not alone, there are many mothers who feel the same as you do right now. Start taking baby steps to make things easier. Maybe make a list and start from there... The main thing on your list is chatting to you DH and getting him on board. Good luck.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 23:08
Hi Babylons. Wow, you are an amazing friend, she is very lucky to have you. I agree with all the posts below. Go in there and be kind but firm and insist that she steps down for a bit and takes a few minutes for herself. I had my mum out with both my DS's, but I actually think it made matters worse as I felt I was constantly having to entertain her too. Maybe your friend feels this way too? So go in and encourage her to feed bubs, hand him to you, go shower and get her head down for a bit while you burp and change baby and chat to her mum. Tell her you will wake her when bubs wakes up for his next feed. I too had reflux babies. Tell her to get a second or third opinion. Search on here for recommended paeds for reflux. I saw dr Loubser, but it's tough getting an apt with him. Also, she may be interested in trying a cranial osteopath? I took DS 2 to Lauren at Dubai Osteopath (they have a branch at uptown Mirdif) and she worked wonders on DS. His reflux and colic were so much better and after the 3rd session... Completely cured. And he started sleeping better as he was more relaxed. I wish I'd known about it for DS 1. This is such a challenging time for her, but it will get easier, just keep reminding her of it cos at the time. You feel like it won't. I also think pointing her towards this or any other forum is a good idea. Or a mums and babies group. There she can talk with other mums and learn that she is not the only one up at stupid o'clock clock each night. It always helps to know you are not alone. All the best. Let me know if she needs any books on all this malarky, I have a whole library she is welcome to ;-) and I have a fab sling she is welcome to use. Both my boys were instantly calmed and put to sleep within minutes of being carried in it. Was my lifesaver.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 August 2011 - 21:58
I had Dr Elsa for my second pregnancy and thought she was the best. Perfect in every way. She listened, explained, cared and gave me the birth experience I always wanted. She was very supportive and pro VBAC (even when I felt otherwise at times) she guided me into making the choices she knew I wanted and that she knew was safe. She never once took the easy way out and said, "ok, let's do another C section" and for that alone, I'm am so greatful. She really was wonderful and I know for sure that if I were to have another. She would be on top of my list.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 August 2011 - 21:53
We have done this for our Sri Lankan maids 4 or 5 times now and have never had an issue. Coming from Colombo as well as leaving Dubai.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 07:14
That's true. As far as I'm aware they are still off the Market in Europe. this happened about 7 months ago if I recall correctly. We had them all over the place with DS 1, but this tome round we've gone for rugs. If you're looking for something for outside you could try the rolls of fake grass they sell at ACE maybe?
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 22:07
The cats owner needs to take responsibility for her cats behaviour. I am a big cat lover, but we recently had a cat coming in to our kitchen every night and wee'ing over everything. The final straw was when it wee'ed up against my babies bottle that was standing on top of the microwave. The following night i waited up for it, with a broom stick in my hand ;-) It never came back;-) Cruel, maybe (although I didn't hit him as hard as I'd have liked to) but i had had more then enough of disinfecting my kitchen from top to bottom every morning. And closing the window was driving my very "talkative" cat nuts which was waking up the whole household. Though, because u know the owner, I'd go to her first and ask her to take responsiblity. [url='>link[/url'>
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 20:27
Duh, sorry. It's bellsdxbATgmailDOTcom
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 18:02
Our old villa is available. We moved out on 30th. If you're interested email me and I'll give u the LL's no. Great place, great landlord.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 14:44
Watching this thread closely as we are in a similar situation. Right now... It's the "logistics" that are stopping me from going ahead. Silly, but true. Travelling, hotels... Car seats!!! It's scary. And what about things you do in twos? A family of 4 is perfect, 5 makes it awkward. I'm also at a stage where I want to start doing things as a family without a baby in tow. Go to Disneyland etc. Oh man, Reading over what I have typed has made me cringe, I sound pathetic, but they are my genuine thoughts... Ladies, feel free to flame me ;-)
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 14:39
Swarovski, I sent you a text re the water filter. Didn't get a reply so I'm assuming the other lady came to collect it? Sorry to pester you, just checking ;-)
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 14:39
Swarovski, I sent you a text re the water filter. Didn't get a reply so I'm assuming the other lady came to collect it? Sorry to pester you, just checking ;-)
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 August 2011 - 21:11
Interesting.y 1st DS, who had really bad reflux till 9months and like yours, was used to having only ME for everything, also never took to a comforter, and I tried;-) DS 2, slight reflux, rectified by cranial Osteopath, has a soft toy cat that he adores! I'm sure it's mostly down to the personality of the child, but I think it also depends on the situation as well.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 August 2011 - 20:38
I believe if they have never been to Dubai previously to work, then yes, their government insists on this training. However, I'm wondering if because she didn't ge asked to do it when she came on a visit visa maybe it would be worth bringing her in on a visit visa and then doing the transfer once she's here? Extra work but an option if you're in a hurry. Just to add. Are u aware of the extra travel insurance she has to have before the Sri lankan government will let her leave to work here? She can get this done at the airport before the flight out I believe.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 August 2011 - 16:51
I had a doula at City hospital and the hospital staff were great they left us and our Doula "to it". I have however heard that Welcare do not welcome doulas. How long ago did you deliver? October 2010
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 August 2011 - 14:27
Yes. We went with out 1st DS who was then 12 months. We found it to be excellent. Ask away. Or email me if u prefer. BellsdxbATgmailDOTcom <em>edited by KellsBells on 05/08/2011</em>
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 August 2011 - 20:49
I had a doula at City hospital and the hospital staff were great they left us and our Doula "to it". I have however heard that Welcare do not welcome doulas.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 August 2011 - 21:23
Firefox. Happy enough and couldn't be bothered to change.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 August 2011 - 16:18
What areas are you looking at? I'd start now if I was you. Make yourself totally familiar with what is out there so you know when a deal is good or not. Also, sometimes there are a few bumps along the way with dodgy agent etc. so best get in early. We found our new place 3 weeks before we wanted to actually move in. We payed a security deposit and the LL agreed. Guess it depends on the area, although, this is in the Ranches where I am led to believe properties are flying... So who knows I guess. Happy hunting.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 August 2011 - 21:49
As Shaf says, if you are a high risk pregnancy then yes, it is suggested you register with al Wasl. I was 8 weeks pregnant with my second when this all started and I have to say, I found it very "Dubai" that the same time all pregnant woman are told to register at Al Wasl is the same time al Wasl decided to double their prices. Call me synical. Of course we all want to have a safe delivery for mum and bubs , that goes without saying. But I just think it's all another way to get our money. Ok, off on a tangent there but basically, discuss it with your OBS and see what he/she feels.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 August 2011 - 10:51
The Gina Ford weaning book has a fab and easy homemade stock recipie. Shout if you don't have the book and would like me to post it.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 August 2011 - 22:24
Woo hoo... I WON, well... Not really but excited I'm one of "the chosen ones".
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 July 2011 - 09:00
Not been to those two mentioned but went to La Paradis (I think) a few years ago and thought it was horrible. The resort was lovely on the outside, perfect location. Lowly horizon pool on the beachfront. But the service wasn't great at all. We spent quite a bit of time and Banana Fan Sea resort, just a few doors down and we liked it. Not as impressive to look at, but friendly, efficient service.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 July 2011 - 08:56
Oh dear. We're moving to the Ranches soon and will have to switch to Du... This thread has got my expecting the worst already. Sorry you're having such a nightmare...especially as you're not even here anymore. Maybe contact a newspaper and see if they'd help expose them - may give them the push they need, or not. Either way, hope it's sorted soon.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 July 2011 - 08:53
Wiki explination : Kohl has been worn traditionally as far the Bronze Age (3500 B.C. onward) by the Egyptian queens. It was originally used as protection against eye ailments. There was also a belief that darkening around the eyes would protect one from the harsh rays of the sun. India's oldest caste, the koli, used kohl as a cosmetic. In addition, mothers would apply kohl to their infants' eyes soon after birth. Some did this to "strengthen the child's eyes", and others believed it could prevent the child from being cursed by the evil eye.[1'>
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 July 2011 - 20:59
Sounds familiar. We have to try much harder at our relationship when were here in Dubai. When we're on holiday...no matter where it is - things are totally different. Things just fall into place and the spark is back. It's easy to blame Dubai, but DH and I have made an effort to not blame Dubai and just accept the way it is but to rather beat it. We have found talking the key...no matter what we feel, we've promised we'll come out and say it. And I must say, it's working. We're going to bed feeling happier and closer and I guess that's the key. Like I say, it's working for us...your situation may be totally different. We tried the dates, romantic dinners etc. But for us, communication has been the huge thing.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 July 2011 - 17:06
Has anyone had a lift with Dr Khan? I'm in the process of doing my homework and was totally sold on going to SA where it would be cheaper. But now considering Dubai as it would be so much easier to plan.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 July 2011 - 09:57
Nope, not for the past few days I believe. We're in Mirdif.
KellsBells
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 July 2011 - 14:55
I used Zantac and infacol together under the recommendation of my paed. I would check with your to be on the safe side though.
 
 
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