Kid Vs Kat | ExpatWoman.com
 

Kid Vs Kat

Kid Vs Kat
232
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 19:56
Fretty, you had me at "thank god I don't have a gun";) You sound so secure and grounded in your role as a new mum and have a good sense of humour about it... You're gonna be just fine..;) I like JoyceB's advice. Keep her busy and involved without it infringing on your parenting. As for the top up feeding, she probably is just dying to feed the baby.. bless her, she loves her grandchild and this probably brings back magical memories for her. Good luck and keep to your guns. Enjoy your beautiful baby;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 19:50
some great advice... can I also add... different countries and industries prefer different formats eg the UK tends to lend themselves to the 2 page summary where others may want to see a detailed portfolio. Perhaps you could register with an agency which specialises in your field like Carter Murray or Hays Marketing? They could tailor your cv to suit their clients. Also, ask them whether they would like a CV or a resume. Some people get their knickers in a knot when the title CV is used and the applicant does not have an undergrad degree. (that's only if you don't have one though..;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 10:12
I think bikinis look better than one pieces on pregnant ladies.. but do as SueB says and make sure it is the correct fit.. have a great holiday
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 10:10
You will need to report your maid as absconded before you can sponsor a new maid.... :(
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 10:08
perhaps she could look at Nibras? It's American Curriculum... Also consider that only the diploma level is IB accredited at Greenfields....
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 10:43
would love to be able to reassure you, but we still haven't left our dd with a sitter that she doesn't know and she is 6...:\: same... perhaps install live nanny cams first. You can let the nanny know where they are and ask that she keep dd within view as much as possible;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 10:35
Suze63, that was pretty poor form from the parents of the birthday girl... If your dd was the only one from the class excluded, I totally understand where you are coming from. It's not like it was a small gathering for select friends, the whole class (minus your dd) was invited... odd.. Perhaps as you are new, your name is not on the 'class list' and the parents of the birthday girl do not know your DD is in the class? I hope it was an oversight on their part. hugs.
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 13:43
Ikea. they are plastic lined on the base with fabric overlay;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 13:03
have you tried JAPS? (you are near IBN?) They are top notch and there might be spots... Good to have a few options open.. good luck
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:57
remember that thread about hiring illegal maids.... I would not dare hire anybody unless they were with a registered agency or I sponsored them.... It's not just about the money but what about all that time in court and dealing with the police.....:(
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:54
can't help with Wellington but you could always engage the services of Fiona Coutts, the education consultant who gets rave reviews on this board...
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:54
it is amazing what they can get away with.... I was told by KHDA 2 weeks ago that it was wrong for them to be demanding it, but that if I was in a position to pay it then it would probably be in my best interest to do so, as you never know what they may use against me if I didn't. Couldn't believe it, seriously it makes a mockery of KHDA, what is the point of them? *Be in your best interest to do so*....................:\: ....or else.......:(
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:52
Our Volvo is on sale too! Volvo XC 90 – 2007 Model – Original Sweden Made V8 Engine, All Wheel Drive Black Exteriors/Well maintained White Leather Interiors Agency Maintained Accident Free History Rear Parking Sensors Six CD Changer Sun Roof Alloy Wheels Excellent Condition Excellent Mileage Child Lock system Electric Seats Stability Control 4 Air Bags safety Price – AED 120,000.00 ONO eta: the car is in perfect condition, unfortunately have to give it up due to personal reasons. edited by Tan on 04/04/2011 nice wheels... sure you'll miss it.
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:51
Ok, I am starting to panic a bit. Have applied for dd who is 4-yrs-old at 3 different schools and waitlisted for all 3. My questions are, is that too few to apply at? Should I try for more? I am trying to find one with American curriculum and close to JBR. Also, what DO we do if we don't end up getting a spot anywhere? Anyone have experience with this? Is homeschooling the only option or do you typically see the waitlists clear up more towards summer when people begin making decisions as to where they will enroll? I am not against other types of curriculum, just wanting to make sure she isn't too far off from American peers as our move to Dubai is somewhat temporary. TIA!! I'm sure you'd get a spot in Nibris, Green Community... it may be a little far out though....
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:21
Make sure that you get approval in writing from the owner and have this attached to your registered lease.. there are some shockers out there who will say that the apartment must be left in exactly the same condition just so they can keep your deposit and go after you. Also secure a long term lease as they may simply bump the rent up and move you on after your tennancy period... ;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:00
As soon as I figure out how much is owing on our 2010 Prado, it will be for sale, if you are interested, let me know and I'll post my email Hi there, am arriving next month and might be interested... is it automatic transmission? but of course!;) it's easier to do my make up on the way to work while driving down emirates road.. post your email and I'll get in contact;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 11:59
As soon as I figure out how much is owing on our 2010 Prado, it will be for sale, if you are interested, let me know and I'll post my email Yup am interested. you can take your email addy down now, you have mail;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 March 2011 - 21:11
As soon as I figure out how much is owing on our 2010 Prado, it will be for sale, if you are interested, let me know and I'll post my email
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 March 2011 - 20:32
I have to say, I can relate to most of the points the OP raised and I too have been very close to divorcing Dubai..in saying that I never chose to commit to it fully as I have a long standing love affair with my own country! After a few years however, finding along the way some amazing friends who have been like my family here, I gave in and decided to try and at least ‘like’ Dubai. I have accepted that I am not a lifer and accepting the place makes life here a lot easier. People’s perceptions of Dubai interest me. I still find I am naturally suspicious of and question anyone who loves this place TOO much…As to me it is not a place to be forever, but a place to earn some good cash, lead an exciting life and set yourself up for a better life elsewhere. But that’s just my view! And I those who have really taken to Dubai will not agree with me. I think people’s perceptions of Dubai all comes down to their ‘previous’ life and what they valued. I value having my family down the road, day to day simplicity, naturally beautiful surroundings, the freedom to speak and act as I please and the right to privacy. Things money cannot buy and Dubai can not offer me. Hence why my time here has a use by date. I do see the positives of Dubai though and understand why people love it, however its interesting to read the various views. For example someone who had to work to the bone in their previous country, juggle a job and multiple kids and **** weather seem more likely to enjoy the perks of Dubai such as cheap maids and nannies and year round sunshine. Some are lucky enough to be housewives while their husband earns a living and they can therefore go to these coffee mornings and enjoy a fairly stress free life. Who would want to give up a gig like that? Whereas those who work hard, those who haven’t been lucky enough to make quality friends here and those who value simpler things like I mentioned above many find they struggle a bit with Dubai. So I guess we shouldn’t slate people for Dubai bashing as we don’t know where they came from and why they haven’t taken to it as easily as others. Maybe they don’t have it as good as many of you do here? I know I would appreciate this place a lot more if I could wake up when I wanted each day, go to yoga class, drink coffee and swan about at the beach?! Overall, I think forums should encourage all forms of feedback both positive and negative. Heaven knows I get tired of everything in the news being all ‘Dubai is wonderful and positive’ when it isn’t always true. A little bit of negative keeps us all in check with reality after all :) I often enjoy your posts K2810....very well put...
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 March 2011 - 20:29
She will be missed.... not only one of the most stunning women to have lived but a great humanitarian... her work with AIDS research/awareness will not be forgotten..
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 10:01
sooooo cute!
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 09:46
can you sue the other person for your hiring costs (immigration) and your legal costs too? Sorry for your troubles.
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 09:45
Go for the not-for-profit!!! JESS has rave reviews. Hope you get a spot;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 11:05
JS, my heart goes out to you. May I suggest that you write this all down and send it to your mother. She will read it. My point is that she is not well and you really must leave nothing unsaid, you may not get the answers you want but at least you will have been heard. As for your brother. Perhaps a letter to him too saying to the effect "I love you but I cannot support your behaviour and lifestyle". Please do not feel the need to continually support people who will not give back. They may be family but really, they are not acting like it. Both your mum and your little brother have made poor choices in their lives, you cannot help that. What you can do is to work hard to make your life the best it can be. Focus on your needs and your future and if you have a spare penny, put it away for you. You will need it one day. As for your mothers medical care, can you pay the hospital directly? If not, reconsider your contributions, they may not be making a difference to her life.... .This will make you a stronger person.
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 10:51
Hi, Just thinking out loud but I wonder how Western places would look at us with maids in say the US or UK or Australia? My sister thinks it's wrong we had hired help here in the Middle East, that we were taking advantage, is it one of those things that should remain in the Middle East and not be re-introduced to other places in the world? Sorry I don't know about Australian immigration laws, I have a hunch it will be tough though. Acutally, I haven't thought about that aspect either....... My gut says that this may pose a problem socially..... I've never met anybody is Aus with full time help (except the European au pairs who come to watch the kids while you are at work) and a Nepalise maid may stand out.... Was just on the phone to my friend in Oz and asked her. She is a Singapore national who has grown up with maids... her response was "not on your life." She said that aside from being responsible for this person, she can get perfect help in Oz. Between Jims Cleaning service, her ironing lady, council daycare and uni student babysitters, she is set. Also, the social stigma from having a maid or servant is hard to grasp in Oz. Culturally, it is not the norm. Good point AJ... CW, you should post on an expat site in Aus and see how they feel about you bringing a maid... set your mind at ease.
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 08:43
Is all ok Shaf?
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 08:31
thanks!
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 19:51
:)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 19:39
Good advice given. I'm sure you know what to do.. just don't wait until May 1st. Do a quick search on this site and you'll find people who have had their post dated cheques cashed early. Go. Go now.
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 15:44
thought so, but maybe the definition here is different "Please respond but only if you really want to and if you want to come but not reply you can bring your siblings"
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 15:39
odd, I thought it meant 'please respond':\: <em>edited by Kid Vs Kat on 20/03/2011</em>
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 12:03
Isn't it risky having someone working on a visit visa? as long as you have permission to work and declare it at immigration, you should be fine. Australia is loaded with au pairs who are not students. I think a good immigration solicitor will be able to provide the best advice. .;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 12:01
I don't know enough about the law to know how it's done. If you know which state or territory that you are going to live in, find their law society on the web and they can recommend an immigration specialist who would probably be well versed in what route to take for your maid. If you look for an immigration specialist in Preston, Melbourne Vic, I'm sure you'll find one who is registered with state authorities and who practices this kind of law regularly. HTH
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 11:39
Had a friend who tried it last year, not with a Nepali maid though.... Immigration did not allow it. They do it on a case-by-case basis but basically it came down to the maid having a skill-set that already existed in Australia so the government did not see the value in allowing her entry. Also, you need to consider that you'll have to increase her salary and benefits to up to AUD35K per year to meet her minimum wage requirements. Then the added extras like superannuation etc. Perhaps if your maid came over on a different visa like au pairs do on their own volition. That may be a more achievable route. Hope you get to oz, you're gonna love it;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 11:32
Not sure where NBH3 is but if emicool is your provider, you will need to pay a fixed cost for capacity (the space they need for your appartment whether you use it or not). This is usually billed to the owner, not tennant. Find out for sure who will pay it and ask to see proof that it was paid before you sign. Don't remember what a one bedroom is but I think it starts at around 6K... then you need to pay for usage..... it's not cheap... Get the meter serial number from the real estate agent and call emicool again, they are quite helpful and may even give you accurate costs of your appartment..
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 08:20
After the administrative due diligence, I look for happy teachers. I believe children learn in a positive environment and a happy teacher may very well reflect a positive learning outcome. Happy teachers are less likely to tolerate antisocial children (eg bullies). Hopefully this will be reflected in kids who are openly happy. By administrative due diligence I mean things like, is the curriculum accredited by the country or system that it advertises. (eg, it may advertise IB, but has it been IB approved yet... etc). I would also check to see if the school is actually affiliated with a mother school that it claims to be? Also, is it KHDA registered, how many days per year is is open etc... The third thing I would look at are facilities. Do they suit your child’s needs? Lastly, I would look at the social atmosphere for parents. Is the school inclusive eg parents groups and parent support encouraged in the classroom? I cannot stress how important it is to not just go on the ‘Marketing’ school tour but spend time watching the general student body (with permission of course) and meet with your teacher first. Think that’s it. Good luck, enjoy the ride. ;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 13:33
maybe it's because it is the 19th of March and the moon is the closest to the earth than it has been since 1992?;) I can't cook well so am scratching for reasons..
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 13:32
You didn't upset anybody, just the way the threads go... Mention a salary and it all goes to pieces. In answer to your original question, I think the average on these threads is around 1500dhs.;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 13:27
This too shall pass ;) Try and focus on the goodtimes.... payday! When the year is over (and one day it will be, I promise), run like the wind..
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 13:23
To stop all the arguments why don't all stay at home mums get rid of their maids and do their own housework and the working mums can bring granny across to look after the kids. Problem solved. :) :) :) nothing melts my heart more than when I see visiting grandparents strolling around with the grandkids. I'd love for this to be a reality.;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 13:19
Shaf, I'm so sorry for you and your little ones.... both of them are vulnerable right now. Firstly, I would isolate the maid, even send her away (or if she has an outside room, tell her not to come into your house) till the scabs have healed. Sounds cruel but really, you don't need the stress of possible infection if by some lucky chance, they have not been exposed... Secondly, keep a close eye on the kids temps. Infants can be hard to monitor. The moment you see spots or an increase in temp, see the doc. There may not be much they can do but while they are at such a tender age, you cannot be too careful. Finally, stock up on bicarb soda or calomine lotion. Lukewarm baths with bicarb are an excellent relief. Can you also get some friends to be on standby for you as you will find yourself up for many nights getting through this? Hang in there.
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 13:09
I have purchased great towels from Pottery Barn -- try their PB Classic -- they are thick (820 gms) and remain in great condition washing after washing, even after 6 years of UAE water. I purchased them in the US, but they are available at the PB shops here. They come in solid colors only. I was looking at those towels and they look nice. :) all my towels have a hard feeling to them after being washed. Not plush at all but I also dont want to buy expensive ones that get ruined by Dubai water. try washing them with a capful of vinegar, it is a natural softener;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 13:03
You can hire a Sri Lankan on Dh650 if you bring her over with an agency. Perhaps, do that and then raise it after a few months. Actually, this is not a bad idea... hear me out:cool: Some agencies (I've heard) actually take a proportion of the annual salary when you sign the maids up (sponsor is in the dark).... Also, the family back home know how much is going to be earnt.... Sooo, if you hire them for peanuts, they arrive and you pay them a fair wage, your maid may be surprised and very happy. She or he pays less "commission" to the agency and there is less pressure for them to send more money back home to the family and extended family. Hopefully the maid can actually keep some of the money that they have earnt and choose where she actually wants it to go .... Where did I hear this from? a maid;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 17:04
lol.. seems like that Dimple and Harry are everywhere.. Anyway, it was just a notice to warn residents and ask that they speak with their teenagers letting the know that this won't be tolerated. Posted it on EW to reach those who may not have gotten the flyer..
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 March 2011 - 15:48
Do you have a PRO at your work? They may have a way around this. Alternatively, do you have your own business? You can hire them as an exec assistant etc to get around the rules. Seen it done too.;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 March 2011 - 15:46
Hi Ginger, aside from the office politics, secure your financial position now. Drain all but expected payments (car loan, outstanding cheques etc) from your bank account. If you are let go, he may inform your bank and you don't need your account frozen when that happens. Hang in there;)
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:39
You are very kind ;) How are your family and friends in Japan?
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 15:21
or stick to local fish from the fish market.... sad really, I love chicken.. ps: I also got a Spach chicken from Spinny's yest and blamed the crook taste on my cooking... not anymore...
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 10:25
Oh my word, turning 30. The sane part of me wants to screech: 'suck it up, princess', but the gentler, kinder part of me is ... well, it's saying almost the same thing. Wow, you have your whole life ahead of you, seriously, and you'll be tacking a great many more years onto the end of your 'life expectancy' than many of US will! This is the prime of your life, with so many opportunities before you. And you probably don't even have any cellulite yet. :D We're here for a good time, not a long time, but you have a majorly long time ahead of you to get through, so make the most of it, stop crying in your coffee, and celebrate your life. You're worth it. :) PS. Gorgeous story, salsb. I want to be her when I 'grow up'. :D OMG!! "suck it up, princess" and "we are here for a good time, not a long time" are catchphrases I use all the time... are you my evil twin?
Kid Vs Kat
232
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 10:19
the only circumstance where a mother should abandon her child (or a father for that matter) would be where they are mentally incapable of supporting them or are a potential source of harm to the children (eg, they are abusive, insane etc). there, that's off my chest... this article really riled me.. hmmm, me too. did you read the link in the article to the other one? OMG, just did... it makes her sound less selfish than her actual reply... She spends a lot of energy justifying herself, perhaps she should use it looking at herself...
 
 
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