VHCaterpillar | ExpatWoman.com
 

VHCaterpillar

VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 February 2014 - 17:28
google, Edmonds carrot cake recipe. Edmonds are an old NZ company and they produced a cook book with the recipe. littleone have you made the carrot cake from the Edmonds cookbook? Is that how you know or do you have some inside 'dirt'!!?? I actually have a copy of the Edmonds cookbook and the butterfly cakes were my favourite too - it was the first thing I learned to bake!
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 February 2014 - 16:30
Thanks ladies, honestly I didn't think to get her this kind of stuff. I got her a starter kit of toiletries when she arrived (almost a year ago) and she get's all the hotel stuff that gets brought home (a lot). She doesn't have to buy her own food. When she arrived I was quite generous with things but then she just kept expecting more and more so I put a stop to it. I'm sure you're right that she means no harm and its just a cultural difference but I thought by now she had worked out what the boundaries are and also that by using little things of mine, it immediately puts a question in my mind of what else she's helping herself to. Anyway thanks for the responses, I just wanted to know if I was not alone in finding it a bit off.
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 November 2011 - 10:36
Reviving this thread to ask again, whether anyone has got their hands on a SCOBY. I think I might brew some tea and see whether I can get it to do its thing with whatever wild organisms are around. Need to get a big glass jar, but I miss my kombucha pots. I used to brew 3 gallons at a time. They were like something between pets and houseplants to me. ;) FarmGirl - did you have any luck making a SCOBY? I have done an internet search but I can't find anyone selling/sharing them here...
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 May 2011 - 09:41
We had them in our garden outside for a couple of months and they were [b'>everywhere[/b'>, frequently getting inside the house. My DS would pick them up constantly and they would give off a horrible almond/marzipan smell. They infested our neighbours place too. I found a recipe on a pest control website for a natural pesticide which has worked a treat. You have to spray it directly on them (sad but necessary). 10ml eucalyptus oil (we found that in Australia but you could probably substitute it with tea tree oil or citronella) 10ml dishwashing detergent 80ml water This is a much higher concentration than normal white oil solutions so we just stuck to spraying the actual millipedes in case it damaged the plants. After a few days they were all dead. Hope this helps...
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 April 2011 - 08:22
We had aphids all over the new growth on those plants that have the dark green leaves and then the globes of tiny red flowers (no idea what they're called) Anyway... we used white oil and it seems to have done the trick. Here's a link to recipes for all sorts of home-made pesticides which I am going to have to try since we now seem to be over run by millipedes (they're even coming into the house) and caterpillars are decimating the basil and mint plants. [url='>http://www.abc.net.au/gardening/stories/s2607562.htm[/url'>
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 14:43
Probably suits me better too - rachelrumble at hotmail dot com is my email. I am in Jumeirah 1 / Al Bada'a area - is that a reasonable distance for you?
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 09:45
My mistake, sorry. But for my defence I'll specify that English is my 3rd language, so I'm bound to make mistakes. On this note, I can even offer to swap sewing lessons for free French lessons if anyone interested.... Moustique, I can sew and I have always wanted to learn French (did a couple of years worth in high school). I have a very old Janome that still works fine and I would be happy to show you the basics. If you are flexible with times and don't mind possible toddler interference here and there, we could try and tee something up? Let me know and I'll give you my email.:)
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 January 2011 - 12:23
we ve got our daughter at the INSPIRE nursery in Jumeirah www.inspireallchildren.com close to the big spinneys at al wasl rd. can highly recommend it! If we lived closer, that's were I'd send DS. I thought it was wonderful.
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 January 2011 - 22:39
BMP: I'll see your Merlo and raise you a Grinders - best ever! But since you can't get that freshly roasted here, I like Raw. They will even deliver the beans to your door, apparently. They are at the garden centre on SZR and I'm pretty sure the beans are roasted here + they are organic. Ginnee - do you just add some freshly ground coffee & cardamom to cold water and put it on the stove or is there a special technique?? In lebanon you can buy it ground with cardamon, but I guess you could mix your regular coffee with cardamon powder and get the same effect. I boil a jug of water, then add it to my coffee pot, for a full cup of coffee you want 3 heaped teaspoons (the lebanese like it strong and they measure it one heaped teaspoon to one of those little expresso cups, so I guess one normal cup would be equal to 3 expresso cups). I measure out the water, add my coffee on top and put it on the stove. It will froth up so you'll have to keep taking it off the heat, then put it on again till it stops frothing, when it stops it's done. The egyptians like it with a little froth so it depends on personal taste. The Emirati's have a slightly different technique, they add the coffee to cold water and proceed that way, but for me it takes too long!! You can also add sugar to your pot before you add the coffee if you have yours with sugar. Thanks Ginnee! I am going to try your method except maybe not so much cardamom as it's made here (I find it a bit overpowering). Re Merlo: In Bris, the Grinders outlet is just around the corner from Merlo - I think its way better. You should try it!
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 January 2011 - 15:43
BMP: I'll see your Merlo and raise you a Grinders - best ever! But since you can't get that freshly roasted here, I like Raw. They will even deliver the beans to your door, apparently. They are at the garden centre on SZR and I'm pretty sure the beans are roasted here + they are organic. Ginnee - do you just add some freshly ground coffee & cardamom to cold water and put it on the stove or is there a special technique??
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 January 2011 - 12:29
I found information about a fat free brownie mix via a blog about slimming world. I am currently following the slimming world eating plan. I was sure it would not be available here, but lo and behold it is. I found it in Spinneys and it is kept at the same place where the Betty Crocker cake mixtures are kept. It is called Catwalk Cow. Instead of making the brownie mix with oil and eggs you just mix in fat free yogurt and bake for 20 - 30mins. Super easy and they are lovely and squidgy. One brownie + 2 tsp of light cream equals 6 syns on slimming world so well in range to have a daily treat if you want. It is really rich so just a small square does satisfy your chocolate craving. Just remember it does contain sugar but it is still a low calorie snack. sounds great - definately going to try this one!!!
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 January 2011 - 12:19
Try this blog: [url='>http://www.anjasfood4thought.com/2009/06/recipe-index_03.html[/url'> Check out the recipe categories of Raw, Muffins and Cookies. I made the orange cocoa truffles and although I probably ate more of them than DS (toddler), he loved them. She uses very healthy ingredients. You can buy most of the more exotic ingredients like agave syrup and coconut oil from the Organic Supermarket. Right now I'm finding DS is super fussy with meals. Things that he used to wolf down now sit untouched on the plate. Frustrating!! <em>edited by VHCaterpillar on 22/01/2011</em>
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 January 2011 - 15:06
Baby nurofen and Fenestil (anti-histamine) as cream and drops.
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 11:36
We ended up bringing one from Oz and are now glad we did - saw the same model (although without the wok burner - so not as many bells and whistles) at the garden centre on SZR for approx twice the price! It was a Beefeater. Something to think about: one drawback is that if you want to use the small gas cylinders that fit underneath, you actually have to drop the empties off at a place in Karama and then pick them up, re-filled, from somewhere else (Al Quoz if memory serves). I'm not sure if that same thing applies to gas bbq's bought here or just ones from overseas... You can always go the big cylinder option if you have the room for it - we didn't... You don't have to do all of that hassle. We brought our BBQ over with us and our gas bottle guy sorts out our refills no problem you just need to find a good gas man most jest can't be bothered. Thru had to fit a new regulator but its so easy to just call and get it changed. Thanks Claire, our current gas guys won't do it but l'll check it out... much easier than all the hoopla at the moment.
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 08:59
We ended up bringing one from Oz and are now glad we did - saw the same model (although without the wok burner - so not as many bells and whistles) at the garden centre on SZR for approx twice the price! It was a Beefeater. Something to think about: one drawback is that if you want to use the small gas cylinders that fit underneath, you actually have to drop the empties off at a place in Karama and then pick them up, re-filled, from somewhere else (Al Quoz if memory serves). I'm not sure if that same thing applies to gas bbq's bought here or just ones from overseas... You can always go the big cylinder option if you have the room for it - we didn't...
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 January 2011 - 20:58
don't stress too much.. it won't be as bad as you think. I've done an even longer flight 5 or 6 times ALONE with my two LO's. (the oldest just turned 3!). Definitely don't do playdough. books, crayons, stickers, etc are great.. but honestly i wouldn't pack too much. 1. make SURE you have headphones that will fit his little head the airplane ones won't (i bought some with the big ear muff or whatever it is and they plug right into the airplane armrest) 2. prepare yourself that you WILL NOT GET TO SLEEP OR READ OR RELAX. If you do get a chance, take it!! 3. Accept any help offered and look out for people who are friendly towards him. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best and pray! haha My hat is off to you - I would shut down faced with the prospect of 2 under 3 full stop.... let alone on a flight.... with just me!!!! Actually I'm not bothered by the fact that I'll be alone this time because reading your points I think it will be better not having DH there. Last time we travelled back home DH spent most of the time in Bus while we were back in Economy, which kind of peeved me. It wasn't his fault, that's just how his company does the tickets but knowing he was luxuriating in a comfy seat sipping champagne... grrrrr! I suppose when you're on your own, you just have to get on with it, don't you?
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 January 2011 - 13:51
Craft and cake! Does it get any better?! I have DS 2 years and I think it's time to do some stuff like that but haven't really known where to start... I would have been very keen to join you but I'm a bit too far away for it to be a realistic proposition. What sort of crafty stuff were you planning to do - jic I open a chapter up over my end of town?
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 January 2011 - 13:43
Little toys (cars, airplanes), new interesting book, playdough, crayons & coloring book. Thanks helen, I had ruled playdough out given it's potential for mess but if I'm overseeing everthing it should be okay... I think I was just hoping (unrealistically) for some magic object / idea that would make the whole thing effortless! Reality check.
VHCaterpillar
19
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 January 2011 - 12:48
We don't have a gardener because ours is the size of a postage stamp but even so, dh has irrigated the whole thing, including timers (it became an obsession!) so that we can leave the garden when we're on holidays and not have to worry that everything that we've lovingly nurtured getting trashed in the heat.
 
 
How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

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

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

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

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

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing