Pipititimous | ExpatWoman.com
 

Pipititimous

Pipititimous
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 June 2013 - 12:21
Gentle bump
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 May 2013 - 17:50
Thank you for supportive comments, esp Desert Rose. I had no hesitation in highly recommending her to the new family, it was only after she had secured the job with them alarm bells rang as she asked me for gratuity. I didn't 'fob her off' as one poster suggested. I think what happened 'just shows you' that no matter how we treat these girls, think they are part of the family etc. the harsh reality is that for a lot of them it is all about the money. And why not, I have no problem with that, but keep it as an employee/employer relationship from the start as BBmover states and don't let sentiment creep in. Ok, sorry I misjudged your post. The way I read late last night was not what you were trying to say xx
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 May 2013 - 01:33
Maid left a month ago, I gave her a weeks pay plus a bit extra as a bonus, she started with a new employer (I found her the job here on EW). She has worked 3 weeks with the new 'madam'. so basically she has been covered for the month, seamless transition... Today I get a call from the new madam saying that the maid has stated I didn't pay her anything for the first week of the month when she worked for me. Just shows you doesn't it... So glad to be rid...... "glad to be rid" ? very nice of you to offer her to other EW members then....
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2013 - 16:11
Pipititimous - could you explain what a smart dns is please. We have a VPN but it buffers so badly we've almost given up watching anything. I want to watch the Apprentice lol. Thought I'd hop in ... ;) This is a definition of smart DNS: http://www.whatishowto.net/2012/08/04/what-is-smart-dns/ It was introduced on our VPN service about a year ago and it's BRILLIANT. You may find it's a feature on yours if you go to the homepage/set-up of your own VPN? It was a bit fiddly to install allegedly - DH did it - but it means we can now watch a lot of stuff 'live' without turning on the VPN. Not so good for live sports, but talking heads/docos/etc it works fine. If you do a search for 'smart DNS', our VPN provider is the first one listed. Just in case you're on the hunt for a better VPN service (we've used this one for years; works really well). HTH. Thanks LadyB, just seen it. Basically it allows you to watch Netflix without the vpn and is faster.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 May 2013 - 13:55
We have Netflix and it works fine with vpn. We use smart dns to increase the connection speed as well.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 May 2013 - 13:51
I think you should listen to your solicitor because presumably he knows the whole story and understand your rights and obligations. It is difficult for anyone on this forum to advise you on what to do because there seems to be a lot unmentioned in your post. I assume there was more to your separation than your depression and your OH seems to be very angry with you for reasons that are not mentioned here either. I am sorry that this has happened to you and wish you all the best in the future. I am sure other posters who went through similar situations will be able to advise you better x <em>edited by Pipititimous on 18/05/2013</em>
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 20:55
Why should your little one miss out on this playgroup due to no fault of either of you. I would do what Mrs Rayner said but would also make sure that the mother hears you. She might get the hint? if this doesn't help, I would encourage him to play with other toddlers and try to avoid him getting too close
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 May 2013 - 15:39
i had a letter come for signature once that ended with... "Sorry for any incontinence caused" lol
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 May 2013 - 15:34
What about takeaways? Are these restricted to only evening deliveries during Ramadan?
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 May 2013 - 19:46
Could you not use a courier service?
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2013 - 20:33
I would keep her if you are still planning to go back to work. If not, then what LadyBee said.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2013 - 21:08
Yeah saw some in c4 but if you can't find any in your local shop, creme fraiche tastes just like sour cream and is a bit lower in fat.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 April 2013 - 20:30
I might be a bit controversial here but I honestly do not see such a big issue if your child has homework to do. My one is in reception class ( FS2) still here in UK until the end of the school year and has been bringing homework every week. I am not talking about masses of it, but fun things like reading a book, projects, family diaries, learning words and some basic maths. I love spending time with my child after school going through things that he has learnt and seeing his progress. I also am more aware of his abilities and able to raise my concerns or give praises at the parents evenings. Although, I do not agree with overwhelming kids with extra work given to them, I think it is a good preparation for later years.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 April 2013 - 20:12
As others say, just an observation. We had an assessment for our girl who will be 4 in June and all they did was watch her how she played with toys and other kids. My daughter cannot write her name and can only recognise a few letters, but got offered a place the next day.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 April 2013 - 15:48
Are you talking about your close friends? I would hint maybe about being a free taxi driver in a hope they realise? I am terrible with things like that and never ever refuse anything before I end up being completely used by people who take things for granted.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 April 2013 - 19:47
Oh forgot to mention. Check out englishforum doc ch. This forum has been invaluable to us. Met so many friends through there and lots of info about schooling, housing etc.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 April 2013 - 19:43
Hyia, lived in Basel not Zurich but shouldn't be too different and have a lot of friends still living/working in Zurich. What exactly would you like to know? Housing is quite expensive if you want to live in a house. Most expats live in apartments which are quite spacious and close to where you want to get to. Public transport is awesome. We never even bothered with a car for the first year. Trams are pretty cheap and very VERY reliable. Trains are quite cheap as well. If I were you, I would consider living in other cantons where tax is a bit cheaper along with the housing. Many commute from Basel, Zug and Aargau cantons where housing is a bit more affordable. Train journeys are really easy. Schooling is expensive and a lot of the expats put kids to local schools. It's different there to other countries. Children speak Swiss German, German, Italian, French and English fluently. So this could be a consideration. Swiss life can be a bit tricky for some. Shops close on Sundays. There are certain laws which could be a bit odd for some people like: no grass cutting or washing your car on Sundays etc. Let me know if you need any other info. I loved living in Switzerland and would go back without hesitation should I have a choice.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 April 2013 - 10:50
Had kids and my obsessions gone out of the window! :)
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 April 2013 - 19:18
I have never left my kids to go on a holiday just because I have never had the opportunity but I have left them with my husband over the weekend to go on a training course. It's difficult but my husband can take care of the kids just as well as I can, so I cannot see the problem.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 18:51
If I were you, I would stay in Umm Sequim, Jumeirah or Al Safa areas providing your budgets allows you to. The beach is minutes away, the residential areas are established, villas are big. I used to live there and loved it. It has a lovely family feel especially if you get get a compound villa. I would suggest going to have a look around, it is honestly lovely, but can be pricey..
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 23:04
There could be two things, either there is not enough sauce or you cook it for too long. I would try making the sauce thinner and more of it first and only cook as long as it takes the cheese to melt/crust at the top. Pasta is like a sponge and will soak up any liquid very very quickly. Do not cover the dish once you put it in the oven as well. As far as cheese is concerned, it also sounds as if you over cooked it. More cheese and less cooking time/lower temperature. I have always find that baked Mac'n'Cheese is drier that the one done in a pan.. Hope this helps! And thanks....I am peckish now * off she does to look inside the cupboards* :)
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 March 2013 - 19:01
Car rental - Dollar and use the promotional code SPP. By far the cheapest car rental we could find. Brunch - Spice Island in Crowne Plaza in Deira. It is reasonably priced and family friendly. Not sure how it compares to other brunches as it is the only one I have been to so far.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 March 2013 - 12:15
Could you not give your friend's or family's address? I would do that instead of giving your abroad address. I take it you are applying for an urgent passport which is issued within 4 hours. If this is the case, than the address is not really massively important to them as they dont have to send you anything. Happy shopping whilst waiting for the passport :)
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 March 2013 - 15:18
Ouch! And medicine like Valium cost pennies.. Go figure
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 March 2013 - 15:15
I don't think there would be anything alternative for poppy seeds taste - wise. If you only use it for sprinkling over the bread, I would substitute it with sesame seeds. But if you use it as an ingredient, than some people claim peanut or almond paste can work. IMHO, I would leave it out completely/
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 23:21
Awww glad you got it sorted, good luck!
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 20:51
I've never heard of Olbas before. Were you able to find it here? I haven't been to the Chemist, when it comes to my little people I only trust the word of their Pediatrician. I can't leave to pickup anything tonight, no live in help and DH is away on business. edited by Kaba on 27/03/2013 Sorry I am not sure, but chemist should have it. Olbas oil is a mixture of essential pure plant oils and you apply on the pillow or fitted sheet. It's a very good decongestant. <em>edited by Pipititimous on 27/03/2013</em>
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 20:38
Just to add, you can open a basic savers account with Emirates NBD when your visa is in process. All you need is a letter from the company stating that your visa is in process and your passport. Once your visa is finalised, you can then change your account into salary account. Good point!- I'd forgotten I did this all those years ago! Although it's a savings account, you'll get given a debit/cash point card Bella, so perfect if you don't actually want to send the money back to the UK. I am pretty sure we sent money back to UK using the savers account...but not 100% sure.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 20:36
I use Olbas oil for my kids. It always helps them sleep better. I know it's a silly question, but have you tried going to Chemists and ask if they have anything suitable for toddlers?
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 20:13
Just to add, you can open a basic savers account with Emirates NBD when your visa is in process. All you need is a letter from the company stating that your visa is in process and your passport. Once your visa is finalised, you can then change your account into salary account.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 17:10
It will be FS1. FS2 is for when they turn 5 in that academic year.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 15:47
Hi Lella, My husband already lives in the Greens and so far likes it. We are coming to visit him for 3 weeks this Saturday. If you want to give me your email and we could maybe go and explore together? I have two kids 5 and 3 ( nearly 4).
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 13:14
Keep out! Definitely. I have had a few occasions where I knew that a man or a woman had cheated on their partners. The only time that I have told my dear friend that her husband cheated was when they already got divorced due to her husband leaving her. She was still in love with him and seemed like she could not move on. My husband and me sat her down and told her about all the affairs he had during their marriage. She understood why we haven't told her anything before and was very thankful because the guy was my husband's best friend. Since then, she felt that she could move on and now has remarried and given birth to a wonderful little boy.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 13:47
I feel that you are a bit harsh here. Such is apartment life and from your OP it seems that this was the first time this has happened. As Derien said, it was probably a special occasion ( with 60 peoples, I should hope so) and a one off. Should this happen regularly, than I would be also complaining.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 22:09
I once belonged to a close group of friends who doubled up on their meals, packaged one for sharing and then traded once or twice a week. Saves everyone from a night or two of cooking and also brings new things into the home. Sometimes causes interesting discussions at the dinner table. Examples include but not limited to; children dislike something, Husbands prefer a dish another lady's way, someone uses too much salt or not enough...blah, blah. But, makes for an opportunity to giggle at times. Also dessert trading and sharing. Just an idea for some of you ladies who are well acquainted. I love this idea! Just like come and dine with me, but without the fuss of arranging a dinner party lol
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 21:56
No help, but just wanted to say how sorry I am to hear this and best of luck with the treatments x
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 21:02
My two are 16 months apart - boy and a girl. They do fight occasionally, but most of the times they get on pretty well. The older they get, the better they play together tbh
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 19:38
When you return to the UK you should complete form P86 "coming to the UK" or something like that. As you will be going back at the start of a new tax year you won't need to worry about what you have earnt over here, if you weren't going back until later in the year then they can tax your worldwide income for the whole year. Your last P45 won't be valid as it was for a previous tax year and the code won't apply now. Until HMRC process your P86 and update your records then it's highly likely you will be on emergency tax code, however, emergency tax code is different to basic rate tax code. On emergency it means that you will still get your tax free allowance each month but on a month by month basis not on a cumulative basis. Any tax overpaid will be refunded once HMRC notify your employer of the correct cumulative code to operate. ok...please disregard my post below. This makes a lot more sense :)
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 18:20
As far as I know, when you start your new job in UK, give your new employer your most latest P45. They will then set a tax code for you. This should avoid you being put on an emergency tax code. As long as you had been a non-resident in the UK, you should not need to pay tax on your income in Dubai. Now since you have sent your P85 to notify HMRC, you should be fine.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 15:15
Definitely recommend visiting Chester Zoo. It is massive and requires nearly all day providing the weather is ok ( forecasted chilly weather up until the end of Easter). Also, they have Science and Industry Museum in Manchester ( free entry). They have plenty there to do from games to a little journey on a steam engine. All toilets have changing rooms where ever you go. As far as London is concerned, I would recommend visiting Natural History Museum then go to one of many parks there. Also, The London eye is quite a nice thing to do if it is your first visit. I would also recommend the train for travelling to London from Manchester. It will be quicker than driving and it will also be easier for you with a toddler.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 16:40
JoyceB makes a valid point - chlidren pick up on the way their parents are treated by each other (and others) and can become very protective. He doesnt want his kids to resent him for not behalving properly with their mum. As well as mother criticising and interfering when dad takes charge. Goes both ways I'm afraid. Just because husbands work all day, does not mean that they shouldn't be given a chance to get themselves involved in children's upbringing and if this disturbs the routine a bit - so be it. My husband is a lot softer than I am, but this works for us. Our golden rule is not to criticise each other in front of the kids as far as disciplining and upbringing is concerned. It is impossible to agree on everything, but there is time and place for this. As long as you agree on that, everything else will sort itself out. Agree that DHs should help out work or no work. Didn't mean to infer that they shouldn't. My DH dealt with the kids in the mornings when I was out on an early shift and I did the same when I was on days off and DH had to leave early for work. Child care was shared 50/50 back in the dark ages of the 70s and 80s when our kids were young. I wouldn't have had it any other way! :) I was adding to your post rather than disagreeing with it :) Agree on sharing the child care also.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:53
Husband took it a few years ago and it made him depressed which is one of the side affects. He thought it was just stress, but later he had to take a month off work because his depression got really bad. He went to see the doctor and he told him to stop taking it. As soon as he stopped taking it, he felt fine again.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:37
JoyceB makes a valid point - chlidren pick up on the way their parents are treated by each other (and others) and can become very protective. He doesnt want his kids to resent him for not behalving properly with their mum. As well as mother criticising and interfering when dad takes charge. Goes both ways I'm afraid. Just because husbands work all day, does not mean that they shouldn't be given a chance to get themselves involved in children's upbringing and if this disturbs the routine a bit - so be it. My husband is a lot softer than I am, but this works for us. Our golden rule is not to criticise each other in front of the kids as far as disciplining and upbringing is concerned. It is impossible to agree on everything, but there is time and place for this. As long as you agree on that, everything else will sort itself out.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 22:49
I am coming to Dubai in 3 weeks, so could bring it to you if you don't find it by then?
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2013 - 19:40
Green Thai Curry for us tonight.
Pipititimous
200
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 15:43
Pasta salads are quick and easy. Just add some tomato sauce or mayo, cheese, chicken, tuna, cucumber, peppers etc. Can be easily done from leftovers.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 16:39
I have tried so many foundations, but my most favourite is MaxFactor colour adapt. It doesn't dry my skin out and is very easy to apply. However, I would not pick a foundation by recommendations. Every person has a different skin type. I would recommend getting some testers and test them on your skin to see what you prefer.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 March 2013 - 18:57
I love having visitors and because most of my friends and family live in other cities/countries, we do tend to have lots of them. But I have to agree, sometimes if friends or family stay longer then a few days, it becomes hard work. I had some friends staying over for about 6 weeks last year. They both wore black socks and it would leave black fluff all over the carpets. I mean EVERYWHERE. They did help out with house work, so I suppose it wasnt too bad though.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 February 2013 - 20:03
My daughter used to suck her thumb and we tried everything to make her stop. She has recently started playing games on my touch screen phone and what do you know? She stopped sucking her thumb due to her both hands being occupied at the times when she would be sucking her thumb. Not saying that you should hook your child on phone games or anything lol BUT, it helped us and she now stopped sucking the thumb at nights as well.
Pipititimous
200
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 February 2013 - 17:51
I will be spending most of my time with my family in Lithuania. A few days with parents, then go to see my sister. Then maybe rent a beach house for a week or two. Go to the capital for a few days as well. Oh and eat lots and lots of lithuanian food to last me another year :) <em>edited by Pipititimous on 28/02/2013</em>
 
 
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