Compliments

Youngest member of the ATA

Today we had a nice visit with my friend Tara (Tah-ra not Tayr-ah) and her daughter Amelia. As baby N and NB slept through it, and Little A was not feeling up to hostessing, it was a very quiet visit, with Amelia just tottering around, playing and eating the lovely brownies her mom brought along. Tara is an Australian principal, who is on leave, while she takes care of her little one. They plan to finish out her husband's contract (Chris is also a principal working as a consultant for ADEC) and then live on a house-boat off the south of Australia (between Australia and Antarctica is how she described it).

Before she left, Tara gave me a wonderful compliment. She told me how she was impressed by the kind manner and quiet way I spoke to my children--my voice never got loud and it was always loving, even when I was correcting misbehaviours. After she left my house the previous week, she told me that she wanted to emulate my 'style' and so she tried to make a concerted effort to talk to and re-direct Amelia in the same manner. She was 'practising' one day, in the elevator at Mazyad Mall, and an observer remarked to her: 'You speak to your child in such a lovely way. Have you ever considered teaching?'. We, both of us former teachers, laughed at that comment.

This reminded me of what MY principal back in Edmonton said one day, during a 'parent-teacher-principal' conference we were having. One of the parents in my classroom was concerned that my classroom was always loud and noisy, and that I yelled at the students all the time (seriously WTF to both of those comments). My principal really backed me up and said that in all the times he had been in my classroom, it was always a quiet, calm and controlled environment, and he wasn't even sure I was CAPABLE of raising my voice--if so--he had never heard it.

Some days I feel like I am such an ogre to little A (Baby N and NB S don't need very much re-direction). It was nice to have someone 'objective' pass along this kind of feedback. I don't want any of my children to remember growing up and always being yelled at by their mom.

Special Delivery

Little Don Ho

Thank you Aunty Aumi! Your package, mailed on March 24 (NB's birthday) has finally reached its destination. I received the notice in my mailbox about two weeks ago, but as Peter was away on business, and I had no desire to load three children and a helper into a truck and risk our lives in the city trying to find the main post office branch, we only picked it up today. What a fun-filled package it was!

Little A is the only one with enough dexterity to open these packages, and thus she has been the official 'Gift Opener' for NB S. She loves it, especially when friends have been kind enough to include little gifts for her and baby N.

Baby N's fine motor skills have really improved, and he likes to spend time flipping pages in books. I hope that he will also come to enjoy the many adventures and stories on those pages as well.

This afternoon we are attending a Father-Son birthday party. I am exhausted (what's new) and I have one of the worst haircuts ever (seriously going into my top 5 list) and so my hair doesn't do ANYTHING--doesn't even look good in a ponytail! I am hoping to get in a little nap now, but...NB S seems a bit hungry and this doesn't seem like it's going to happen.

Vaccinations All Around!

On Tuesday afternoon, Little A practiced being a 'good hostess' when her friend Arysha came over for a pool party (can it be a party if there are only two children...according to little A it can!). Little A is unpredictable when it comes to company, and so I coached her a lot on how to behave in a 'friendly' manner. It seemed to work, as she not only greeted our guests, but interacted with them in the pool and also gave them a big hug (without prompting) when they left. YEAH Little A!!

Yesterday (May 25) we had a fun-filled visit to the New Al Noor Hospital, where all three children were declared 'Perfectly Healthy' by Abu Dhabi's own Pediatrics God himself, Dr. Stiles. NB S was declared to be 'thriving' (despite all the milk she brings up and the 'prickly heat rash' on her face which is due to the harsh conditions here). Little A's skin discoloration on the back of her leg was minor and something that would likely disappear with age. Baby N was a very happy little fellow with beautiful teeth and a great smile, who was advised to start talking.

Baby N had a few 'firsts' this morning. For the first time, we noticed that he was balancing on one foot. He held onto Dr. Stiles desk with his hands, and tucked his right foot up behind his left ankle. Very cute!! He also had his first tantrum in the halls of the hospital, which I unfortunately (NOT!) missed as I was picking up the prescriptions for all the immunizations. Not so cute! Apparently his freedom was being restricted too much for his liking (he wanted to lie down and roll around on the hospital floor and thankfully, Malou would not allow it) and so he expressed his (extreme) displeasure by screaming and pushing her away with his stubby and pokey little fingers. In his defense, he was likely quite tired as he had missed his morning nap.

I guess Tinkerbell wasn't generating enough

dollars for the folks at Disney...

Though Little A had been melting down on and off all morning about the needles ("Mom--I don't WANT to have needle!"), she was completely calm, cool and collected when it came time to do the deed. She sat with me (a snuggle before, during and after is what she had been promised) and took a deep breath and looked at the (sad and peeling) dolphin wall stickers while Sonny (New Al Noor's own Nurse Focker--voted best needle jabber by all the nurses in his department) worked his magic. Instead of the boring hospital bandage, we brought along our own Fairy band-aid (little A LOVES fairies!), and the staff 'oohed' and 'aaaahed' at both little A and baby N, who didn't complain or shed a tear during the process. NB S, on the other hand, felt comfortable sharing her emotions with the anyone who cared to listen. She has a very good set of lungs.

All smiles and snuggles this morning

Fortunately, over 24 hours later (knock on wood), there have been no adverse reactions. I was especially worried about the rotavirus immunization, as this is the one which gave the most amount of grief for children in my original Bonnie Doon Mom's Group. I almost opted NOT to give it to her (you should have seen Sonny's face when I said "No--throw it away."). However, as Baby N had absolutely no reaction to it, and Little A will be going to school (well--sometime in the future) and bringing home different germs, I figured we might as well get it done. Plus, in this region, it's probably better to be safe than sorry.

Big brother's 'gentle' hand

Peter was at a conference in Dubai, and didn't get home until 11:30 (or so he tells me...I was sleeping). Little A was so very excited to share her war stories with him (briefly) this morning. She showed him her bandage, and also her 'prize' My Little Pony doll (with cookie and cupcake) from her mom for being SO brave.

Also, Phinn had a little Abu Dhabi education on Wednesday. I think he finally figured out why we keep him INSIDE during the long, hot days. My friend Hope dropped by to pick up a swim cap to go to the Officer's Club (there's a post somewhere here about the sexism involved in that). Phinn ran out, and I decided to just let him go. It was around 1:30 pm, and over 45 degrees and so I wanted to see just how far he might get. Sure enough, it took about a minute before he started lifting his paws in obvious discomfort--they must have been burning. So, I scooped him up and inside we went. Now THAT is what I call a teachable moment!

Meeting MR Shariza

Last night, we invited our friends, Shariza and Arul, over. We had such a great time at Mr. K's Birthday Party (where we ended up staying WAY too long) and wanted an opportunity to get to know these two both a little better.

We had so much fun (again) and it was a relief to see Arul and Peter hit it off.  As we divided up into 'ladies' (as I moved to the sofa to nurse NB) and 'mens' groups, the boys didn't miss a beat and the conversation continued to flow (I'm not sure they noticed we were no longer at the table to be honest). What a really enjoyable couple!! It's always so nice to have 'couple' friends, isn't it?

Shariza brought me some MORE food, which was absolutely delicious. Not only will I credit her for making me enjoy tofu, but she now has also introduced me to QUORN, a meat-substitute (not available in Canada though). At first, when I opened the dish she made, I was afraid she had meant the meal to be for Peter, as the crumbly brown bits resembled ground beef. I got Malou to try it ('food taster' is one of those 'other duties as required' on her list of responsibilities), and she told me it was definitely meat. I was disappointed, as I had hoped to have this meal for lunch, and did not have any energy to come up with a back-up plan. I was quite perturbed though, because when she handed the dish to me the previous evening I could have sworn she had indicated it was for me to eat, and she had mentioned it contained 'corn' (though I couldn't see any yellow kernels).

As she continued chewing her forkful, Malou began to question her initial analysis. She said, "No...I think this is tofu...it's NOT meat." I figured it was time to make a call, and was delighted to learn that it was indeed vegetarian friendly (tofu, black bean sauce, and quorn). I was even happier after I tasted it, as it was delcious. Another Shariza creation that I will have to try and re-create in my own kitchen.

This week has been good. It is nice to have Peter home. I feel so much better about dozing a bit longer in the morning, knowing that he is with the other two children. As usual, he has come home with a sore throat (he always gets sick after he flies, but it continues to come as a shock to him).

We had a delicious breakfast at the Shangri-La on Friday, with Uncle Pete (Ajay is back in Canada this week). Though I missed Gelar (my egg-chef who has returned to Indonesia), the new chef did a great job with my poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. I had to say 'See you later' to our Shangri-La friends, the Baftihars (who are long-term residents waiting for housing to be approved. Seriously--I can think of worse places to live than the apartments at the Shang), as they were heading off to the UK for the summer (although Gee will be back in a few weeks). I am hoping to be able to keep in touch, and will look forward to their return in the fall (or so they tell me). Sahar's son Adam is a really loving little boy, and seems to really enjoy our family, especially Peter. Our breakfasts will definitely be a lot quieter now (though I've noticed baby N is picking up his game).

In the afternoon on Friday, I had Henny (an Indonesian masseuse) come to the house to give me a massage. She focused her work on my hip (which although a whole world better than before, still gives me minor grief). Henny feels pretty confident that she will be able to cure me of this pain. I am optimistic as she seems to be very good at what she does.

Almost a toddler

Baby N is on the verge of walking. I'm not sure how much longer, but he has now learned to climb up onto the sofa, on his own (without leveraging off me, or NB S's head). Each day sees him get stronger and more active. He is very into books, and I am so proud to see him sitting at the picnic table (not on top, but on the little blue bench), using his fine motor skills to turn pages in his board books. He can focus and do this for quite some time. He has also been keeping busy testing Newton's law of universal gravitation, by tossing blocks and cups out of his play-pen (which I have surrounded with foam play-mats to muffle the sound for NB S).

Is that a smile I see or just gas?

NB S continues to grow. Each day she is more alert, and sometimes I swear she knows me and smiles at me. My major concerns with her are baby acne and spit-up. However, I know these are minor concerns, as she is putting on weight and appears to be bright-eyed and healthy. We have a doctor's appointment with Dr. Stiles on Wednesday, where all of my children will receive immunizations. Little A has had a bit of a problem with this bit of information.

Though she has been very happy to assure baby N in the past that it is 'just a pinch', she is not too keen on experiencing the pinch herself. She is going to be having a chicken pox booster (Dr. Stiles recommended it for this region), and it has taken a lot of support, discussion and encouragement to get her to where she was tonight--singing about having her needle tomorrow (although it's actually on Wednesday). I am proud of her.

A helping hand

She has spent the day very much enjoying a poetry book about fairies that Peter bought her on his trip. I was concerned as the book is not age appropriate, but she doesn't seem to mind. It has brilliant pictures of fairies and flowers, and she loves flipping through it and looking at all the pictures. We spent almost an hour this morning, reading the poems together. She wanted me to read her every single one. I'm not sure how much she understands, but she obviously enjoys hearing the way the words sound.

Happy 17 Months Baby N!!

New haircut

How did we celebrate?? Well, first, at 7:17 a.m., we went outside and had another haircut (I believe this would be the fourth one). I figure this one will hold until we head to Canada (and I can touch him up before that). It was already well into the 30's by then--and so I had to be quick. My luck held out (I think) and he seems to have another lovely haircut (what will Ellie Grandma think though?).

New teething beads

Then, it was time to switch his teething beads over. If you recall, I had Natural Urban Mamas send me two pairs of round black amber teething beads. I actually didn't end up getting any special service from them (or any discount for the previous necklace he was wearing that had a piece that broke off). However, they were pleasant to deal with and I did get manage to get the beads delivered here in a reasonable time-frame.

So, now he is wearing the round beads (as opposed to the chunks he had before). I don't think it makes a difference to him at all, but now he'll match with his two sisters.

Speaking of timely deliveries, I visited the mailbox yesterday, and it seems there is a parcel to be picked up at the main branch of Emirates Post. The package arrived on April 25, and I just received this notice in my mailbox this week. I will wait until Peter gets back from his trip before going to pick it up. Aunty Aumi--could this possibly be the package YOU sent back in January/February?? I sure hope so (as I know you spent a small fortune on shipping). I will keep you POSTED (hahahahhaha!!).

Look mom! We're playing nicely together!

Little A continues to sleep in her room. She has been having a week full of mosquito bites (at last count there were TWELVE on her body!). She chose a lovely red zebra band-aid for her forehead to cover one of them, as she was scratching so much, I was afraid that it might scar.

NB S has started joining me in some fennel tea (my next best effort to help her with her gas and spitting up). So far, it seems to have made a little difference--she is not bringing up milk at every feed anymore. However, this could also just be attributed to her body maturing. But--a little fennel tea never hurt anyone.

Only two more sleeps until Peter comes home.

The Blame Game

I can completely empathize with people who develop eating disorders.

Baby N has been putting on some weight, and he is quite a stout and solid little (almost) toddler. Of course, with his Buddha belly, and his sweet little moobies, come the unsolicited (and unwanted) comments from the peanut gallery about him being 'fat' and 'so heavy'. I have become very sensitive to these comments, and find them difficult to just grin and bare.

Baby N's weight gain was a bit puzzling to me, especially as I have not increased the amount of solids he is eating by any great amount. It was worrying enough for me that I brought it up at his last appointment with the pediatrician--who told me that we should monitor his weight gain, but not to worry about it, as he is within the normal range. She also suggested we switch him to low-fat or skim milk (which was a big surprise) and just let him continue to be his own active/exploring little self. And, of course, once he started walking, he would burn a lot more calories.

Then, today, I had the 'a-ha!' moment. I figured out where all the extra calories have been coming from for him. Seems I have another 'bad mom' award coming my way.

Today, when my helper was preparing Baby N's supper, I happened to actually be in the kitchen (instead of playing with the kids, or nursing NB S) beside her. I looked over at Baby N's bowl of cereal, and I said "WOW! That looks like a lot--is that only two scoops?".

She replies: "No--four."

In my head I am confused and pause for a moment. Four scoops is DOUBLE the amount of cereal that I have told her he should have.

So, I say: "He's supposed to have 2 scoops." I look at the label on the can of cereal (made lovingly by ME, with a red heart, for PETER--so he knows how much cereal to give his son for breakfast on the mornings that I am not up and he decides to feed him). The label says "2 scoops for breakfast".

She looks at the label too and says, "2 scoops for breakfast. 4 scoops at lunch and supper."

I wonder where she came up with this information. I say, "I have never given him 4 scoops."

She goes to the fridge, to look at the written instructions I left (for when I wanted to make her more 'independent' instead of having her ask me every day what Baby N should have for lunch and supper). The written instructions also indicate only 2 scoops. What more can she say?

I too am at a loss. I say "No wonder he has been putting on so much weight." She is one of those people who has commented about how heavy my baby Buddha is.

So, I opt to just shake my head and say, "2 scoops for breakfast, lunch and supper. Not four." Then I pretend NB S is fussing enough to need my immediate attention and walk away. What more could I say?

I am so upset. I wish I could be angry at her, but at the end of the day, I know the buck stops with me. I have looked at Baby N's cereal many, many times while I've been feeding him and wondered why it always looks like so much MORE than it used to...and then my brain gets distracted by something else, and I never follow through with further investigations.

Also, since I have been so tired for so long, I feel like my memory is not as great as it used to be. So, I find it hard to be certain about things. I am always second-guessing myself (for example--a small part of me was wondering if perhaps at some point I had switched him to 4 scoops for lunch and supper and then forgot about it), and I am tired of this too. Even though I am tired and run-down, my brain is still in excellent shape, and I have to start giving myself some credit for that.

I will have to try and find some more energy somewhere to be better at supervising the work that she is doing related to my children. It is annoying to me that she messed up something so simple (2 scoops!!--where is the confusion in that?). Generally, I only task her with things that are not complicated--to get the little 'time-wasters' off my plate--but if I have to micro-manage even THOSE things....well, wouldn't I just be better off doing it myself?

Breathe in...breathe out...deep breaths...time for some tea and sleep. Just a little ranting from someone who obviously needs to escape with some tea and unreality television.

SHE DID IT!!

My little A has slept in her room for FIVE nights!! I am so proud of her and hope she will continue (unaided by any external motivation). Every morning she calls to let me know she is awake. I use the baby monitor to invite her into my room. She comes in, sleepy, with a toy or a book and then snuggles into my bed (after she peeks over to give NB a morning kiss). Then, she plays quietly, or watches a show on my phone, while I doze a little bit more.

We looked at THREE different stores at the Pink Shops for a horse and carriage (that is what she had her heart set on, as she saw one there about six months ago). Unfortunately (and unsurprisingly?) it wasn't waiting there for her. One shopkeeper urged me to return this evening (as he had one at his other store)...but little miss could not wait.

After lunch, we trekked to Carrefour, where there was a horse and carriage scouted out by Uncle Pete. However, the 220aed (about $60) price point made me gulp (though I'm sure Papa would've just bought it for her--you should see the set of seldom used Bratz horses we have--Little A is not a National Velvet kind of gal). We compromised and she chose the above figurines for 35aed (about $10). I told her that we would put the carriage set on her birthday wish-list, and likely SOMEONE will buy it for her (if not, we will do it). Afterwards we did some shopping and by two o'clock, we were on our way home. She went down for her nap easily, taking her little prizes with her.

Now, you would think that after shopping TWICE today, I would have some food for myself to eat for dinner. Unfortunately, all my shopping seems to be focused on the children--and they have loads to eat. Me, on the other hand, I'm going to have to put in some effort tonight to make a meal (thank GOD I bought a box of Raisin Bran!!).

SKMC Wednesday

Wow!! It's an early night--all the little ones were in bed by 7:18 (and all in their OWN beds I might add!).

Today we spent the entire morning at SKMC. Baby N was supposed to have an appointment LAST week, however when I got there, they informed me that my appointment had been rescheduled for today. I guess they tried to call me TWICE on April 20, and got no response. So, they just gave up and assumed I would wait for my 'text' reminder about the appointment. Good thing I had another reason to be there last week, or I would have been really unhappy.

This morning our appointment was scheduled for 9:40. I had been told to come earlier ("No problem"), so we ("We" meaning my entourage, Malou, Little A, Baby N and NB S and I) got there around 9 a.m., in the hopes of being done faster. Well, that didn't go as planned. I didn't get to see the doctor until 10:30. We got home by 12 noon, in time for lunch and naps. Suffice it to say, we were all a little tired.

I guess the positive to come out of this is we have a new pediatrician for Baby N. I was never really thrilled with Dr. Just. I confess I was more than annoyed when they told me upon arrival today that Dr. Just had a sick day (and last week it was vacation time). This was, after all, supposed to be a 'follow-up' visit, and it is very difficult to follow-up with someone who has no previous experience with your case history. So, when I went in, I had to provide an overview of Baby N's medical history (which meant remembering a whole lot of medical terms, numbers and tests).

I was surprisingly pleased with this new doctor (Dr. Eeve-Lisa I think?). She was from Finland, and she actually seemed to have spent some time reading through Baby N's file. I did the usual overview for her, but she also interjected with questions and comments that other doctor's had made in N's file. How refreshing! Much better than Dr. Just.

She did mention two words that I have come to hate (PW--how I despise you and wish I'd never come to hear of you in my lifetime). But not in terms of any diagnosis, rather, something to be watchful for. I can do that.

She told me that Baby N, is 'normal' and doing all the things he SHOULD be doing. Not walking yet? That's okay--he still has time. Too heavy? Just putting on weight at a different ratio than he is growing tall. Put him on low-fat milk and let him keep on being active. Communication? Baby-talk--it will come.

Despite the amount of time it took from our day, I enjoyed this meeting. The doctor seemed knowledgeable about tests and she wrote up two referrals for me (she also gave me the appropriate paper-work to take home). Also, she was personable, and had a kind and caring manner with Baby N. She did not seem surprised when I asked that my future follow-ups be with her, rather than with Dr. Just. Perhaps this happens often...

One second after this she was howling and screaming-

HONEST!

The afternoon was pretty calm. Not too much time to do much of anything. After we got home it was lunch and naps (not for me of course). NB S seemed to have some serious gas pains (started when we got home from the hospital) and I had a very difficult time staying calm and helping her through. She seemed to want milk, and then when I offered it to her it was too much and she would gag and choke. Whatever she did swallow appeared to make its way back up (and out) when I burped her. There was a lot of screaming, and I thought something would explode: her tummy or my head.

Fortunately, nothing did. She managed to settle down around 6 pm. I gave her a warm bath, some Salinol drops and some milk (which so far has stayed down).

It's amazing--no matter how many children you have--you never really become an expert. The crying and screaming still bothered me just as much as it did with Little A. I felt just as helpless and clueless as I did back then (although I'm sure on the outside I must seem so much more confident--I hope).

Speaking of number of children, Little A mentioned to me this morning that she thinks we have enough babies and that we don't need to have anymore. She clarified with me that I did not need to go back to the hospital and bring back any more babies.

I completely agree!

p.s. I just noticed how so VERY much that photo of NB S looks like Little A--it's crazy!!

p.p.s. Little A earned her second sticker today, and from the sounds of it will be receiving number three in the morning! Way to go my sweet little girl!!

Sin City

Las Vegas--oh how I LOVE it! Don't get me wrong--I could do without the smoking, the gambling and the legalized prostitution. But the weather, the amazing hotels, the delicious food, the energy--it's definitely one of my top 10 places to go.

So, I have been very jealous that Peter will be jetting off to Vegas to our friend Raj's stag (SURPRISE RAJ!!). Not only will he be getting to see all of his friends, but he will be able to do it in one of the most vibrant and alive places in the world. Austin Power's states it best: "It's Vegas baby, yeah!".

While he parties it up with old friends, I will be shlumping around here in Abu Dhabi. Though we share many similarities (high temperatures, sand, excessive spending), they are worlds apart.

However, after giving it some thought, I realized that my life is pretty much Vegas 24/7. Don't believe me? Let's analyse this.

1. Sleep--or lack there of.

In the past, I was usually the only one who was interested in picking a nice hotel room to sleep in. Why? Well, 'the boys' (as I like to refer to this group of men, now in their mid-30s) generally pick the cheapest room, and pack into it like sardines. I will be honest and confess that cheapness IS a factor. However, they also figure that many of them will only USE the room for bathroom breaks, showers and an hour or two of sleep here and there. So they think "why pay for a luxury you will never use?"

Some of them like my pal 'THE MACHINE' (if he decides to bring himself out for the party) will come in for a few minutes around 2 or 3 a.m. and toss and turn a bit in the bed. While he is there, he will get so juiced up thinking about all the potential hands he could be winning, that he'll get right back up and head out the door again. Usually, when we pick him up on our way to the breakfast buffet, he is bleary-eyed and still grinding it out.

My life is pretty similar. I have a wonderful and amazing Tempur-pedic mattress (I believe I've mentioned her before). The older two children are tucked in by 8 pm, and it's all 'me-time' then. You would think that I would luxuriate in long restful sleeps. Not so, not so, I say. I sleep in short 1-2 hour naps. It seems that I will just hit the dream-state, only to be interrupted by the gassy baby next to me who wants some milk. When I wake up in the morning to begin the next day, the clock lets me know that I only just went to sleep two hours ago.

So--as far as sleep is concerned--I'm living la vida Vegas!

2. Crazy Vegas Shows

I've only seen one show in Vegas. It was entertaining, but not one of the BIG shows (not Celine, or Siegfried and Roy, or the Blue Man Group, or any of the Cirque productions). This time it is because I am cheap (not across the board--but as far as Vegas shows are concerned, yes). However, no one can deny, Vegas is known for its over-the-top shows.

I have been watching a lot of shows here myself: My Little Pony, Barbapapa, Mickey Mouse Club...all good stuff! Every meal, it's SHOW-TIME! And another show must go on.

The traditional Vegas show has music, singing, dancing and (don't forget) topless girl dancers. I am a little uncomfortable with watching that. I have heard from many that after a while you don't even notice the breasts. Then I am just left to wonder: if nobody is noticing them, why don't they just wear a top?

Anyways, I also get to enjoy many special performances (with elaborate choreography) like this one:

3. Poopy pants

The title alone will bring back some disgusting flashbacks for some of 'the boys'. In Vegas, when someone has too much to drink, they sometimes end up with Poopy pants. In my house, Poopy pants can be attributed to many things: too much milk, teething, stomach bug...the list is endless. Regardless of the cause, someone has to clean these Poopy pants--and it's usually me.

I know Poopy pants are not a part of everyone's Vegas experience, but they are a part of the treasured memories for my 'boys' and Vegas. And they sure are a part of my DAILY experience, right here (and frankly, where ever I go for at least the next 4 years).

In case anyone is confused who the Poopy pants belong to in my house, these two are currently the worst offenders:

If you're wondering about the Poopy Pants in Vegas...well, what happens in Vegas STAYS in Vegas!

4. Fabulous Shopping

So, it's NOT the outlet malls where you can pick up so many fabulous things for fabulous prices. However, I have already made ONE trip to the Pink Shops this week (16th street, KCA), and I can tell you, that you can find almost everything you need there. I went looking for strawberries and came out with bags of peaches, nectarines and plums!! Groceries, restaurants, clothing, electronics, passport photos, salons, pharmacies--you need it--you can probably find it at the Pink Shops!! (Just don't go between 2 & 5 as most of the specialty shops are closed--and be mindful of the smells and gobs of phlegm on the sidewalk). Also, like Vegas the shops stay open late, and you can walk around on 'the strip' at night surrounded by millions (exaggeration) of people on the pavement (although most of them are Indian laborers who don't wear deodorant--thus--the smells I mentioned earlier).

So--see--I don't have to GO to Vegas--I LIVE Vegas!!

Hoping the boys have a safe trip and win big!

Peter:

Mama needs a hell of a lot more

than just a new pair of shoes!

So, please--let's know when to hold 'em,

and know when to fold 'em.

XX

One Sticker Earned

Last night, she did very well. She stayed in her bed all night, and only got a bit 'concerned' when I tried to close her door at 9 p.m. She wanted to have a light on in the hallway, but I explained she already had a night-light in her room. However, as NB was screaming for milk at the same time, I left the door open a crack (though it ended up closing on its own) and I didn't hear anything more.

She is still having a hard time understanding that she has to earn FIVE stickers before she gets a toy. We have never done this extrinsic type of reward system with her before (have never needed to), and so I am just explaining it repeatedly. She was very upset this morning when Malou came to get her, as she wanted ME there to give her a toy.

Baby-cakes!

We decided to sit outside for breakfast and so little A decided we should have a celebratory pancake breakfast. Generally it's not the pancakes she wants, but the potatoe cakes or tater tots that go along with it. However, she's a good little helper and they are easy to whip up.

Around 8:30, it was too hot. We were melting, and finished the rest of our breakfast inside.

Sizzler

I went for my six week check-up and received the 'all-clear' from Dr. Marwan. I was surprised to learn they did an ultrasound to check my uterus (which has contracted back to normal size). I questioned Dr. Marwan about the loose skin I have, and told him I remember asking him to tighten it up for me in the O/R. He laughed and assured me that it would disappear in time. He was happy with my weight loss, and also pleased with the MEBO ointment (he tells me they are doing clinical trials in the US on burn patients).

Little A is down for a nap, with baby N soon to follow. Once they all wake up, we will go for a celebratory swim in the pool (how I have missed it--and the water is perfect!!).

********************************************************************

Meow!

The water WAS perfect. Little A is in (her) bed once again, and I'm settling in with a cup of tea and hoping to call it an early evening. The only plan I have is to stay up until 8 (another 24 minutes) to try and skype with my cousin (the owner of the above arm). He has been keeping me entertained today with back and forth emails. Though officially retired from her majesty's service, he is currently working on a contract in Kuwait. This was his birthday present to himself--the tattoo, not the arm of course. I, correctly, smelled the mid-life crisis (is THIS was 41 looks like??). Though not my cup of tea (that would be the Earl of course), he seems quite proud of his new friend. One day, I'll get the story behind it, I'm sure.

Mr. Sandman...

Since Peter is away, I'm trying to get little A to sleep in her own bedroom at bed-time (and not just for naps). I am using a sticker reward system to motivate her: each night of sleep in her own bed equals one sticker. Five stickers equals one toy.

She is up there, in her bed right now. I have added a night-light and turned on the baby monitor. I have no idea whether she is sleeping (though it is doubtful, as she is used to just playing quietly until her daddy comes to bed).

Malou has been good to me. Since Peter is away, she has come to sleep in the house. She is getting up with the little ones (A&N) in the mornings (5:30 this morning--bless her!). It was her idea, as I think she realizes how often NB gets up at night (usually every 2 hours). As a result, I am not feeling so exhausted (but I know I should get off this blasted computer and go to sleep).

Wish little A luck on the sleeping. I'm off to brush, change and head off to sleep too.

xx

Happy Mother's Day!!

So far, the only Mother's Day I have celebrated (you know--going out for breakfast or having some special recognition of the day) was my first. When little A was our only child, and Mother's Day rolled around we went out for breakfast TWICE. We took my mother-in-law out for a Saturday morning breakfast at the Blue Plate Diner (and I, of course, organized it, all down to the gift that Peter gave his mom). And then, we had our own mother's day celebration (for MOI), joined by Aum & Chris, at the Hotel MacDonald. I had my usual favourite (two eggs, poached well, on an english muffin, with a side of hollandaise aka eggs benny without the ham.) We were presented with lovely tulips (or was it daffodils..?) outside, from Telus, and we even had our picture taken.

Since then, Mother's Day comes and goes in our home with very little fanfare. Perhaps it is because we are living in a country where Sunday is a work day. Or maybe it is because we are living in a country with people from all over the world who celebrate Mother's Day on a different date (I believe the Brits celebrate it in April). Regardless--to quote Kipper the dog "nothing ever really happens" in our household for Mother's Day.

Baby One: always ready for a belly rub

This year my first Mother's Day exchanges were with Malou (my helper), who realized after looking on the calendar that it was Mother's Day. Then, little A, upon hearing her jumps up from the breakfast and says "MOTHER'S DAY!! We got you a card!! It's on the shelf above the swim stuff!". She grabs her step and takes it over to the shelf and returns deflated--it wasn't there! She asked me whether I had moved it (and I had not). I told her we would find it when Papa came home. After which, she promptly forgot about it. Little A and I did spend some quality time, looking through old family photos and videos (courtesy of the Camera Roll on my iphone), and it was sweet to see how much she enjoyed looking at how our family has changed (since I have last downloaded pics from my iphone--so about a year).

Baby two with Baby Antonio

I made (and yes--I really did have to push her to do it, as I think she felt bad using my computer, though I regularly tell she is welcome to it) Malou skype her children in the Philippines, so that they could send her good wishes. She was pleased to catch them before bedtime, and sat with baby N and little A. I asked her whether she thought this was a good idea--sitting with MY children for mother's day, while hers are far away and being looked after by someone else. She told me her children had been asking to see my little ones for some time. Afterwards, she said they really enjoyed staring at baby N (obviously the most cooperative skyper). She told me they liked his nose a lot, as it was long (like mine) and very much unlike the flat Filippino nose that they are used to seeing (her words, not mine).

Baby Three: long nose...?

Then I figured it was time to send Mother's Day wishes to the mother's that came before me (my mom and Peter's mom). Only my mom was on-line however, and so we spent a few minutes sending some skype love her way. It could only have been more enjoyable if my brother got better speakers for his computer, or hearing aids for my parents.

Sometime, in the wee hours when I was sleeping, Peter sent me a Mother's Day text from New York (which I received the next morning).

And that was that--Mother's Day 2011 done.

Baby four

Sending some Mother's Day love your way!

My girl likes to party all the time...

I really feel that Eddie Murphy didn't get enough credit for this song. I for one, really enjoyed it's upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics. His voice isn't all that bad either. Just wait--I'm sure that Glee will do a cover of it, and it will skyrocket back to the top of the charts. Eddie can add a few more benjamins to his account (already well padded with Donkey money).

Last night, we went to a party at my friend Shariza's place (Mr. K's birthday party). We finally had a chance to meet Arul (Mr. Shariza), who travels an awful lot for work--so much in fact that I was beginning to wonder if there WAS a Mr. Shariza. We were given a special dispensation to bring along my favourite breast pump (NB S), and after putting the other two to sleep, we head over. I was only expecting to stay until 10 pm (b/c new mommies need their rest).

We had a really good time, with enjoyable company and conversation. Peter burned his mouth on the spicy Malaysian fare. I watched him mop his forehead, curse the food for its spiciness, and then shovel in forkful after forkful. "Why don't you just stop eating it?" I implored him (several times). However, his mouth was too full (and he probably couldn't even see me shaking my head, as the sweat pooled into his eyes) to give me an answer. NB S impressed everyone with her calm and sleepy sweetness. She woke a few times to nurse and went back to sleep. We enjoyed some quiet time with our hosts, and learned that Arul has an impeccable Chinese accent.

It was a shock to us when we got into the truck to discover that is was past midnight. We drove home another couple who also lived in Raha Gardens (and let them enjoy reliving their younger days of sitting in the boot). We shared more than a few laughs with Neil and Helen last night, and hope to see them again in the future.

We missed you Andrea and Neva!

This morning, we were still up bright and early to head out to the Shang. We were looking forward to a breakfast date with our friend Bruce (formerly a regular fixture at the Friday breakfast buffet), who is here on business. We enjoyed learning about how he and his family are settling in back home in Calgary, and look forward to seeing them once again this summer.

Peter is getting ready for a 12 day business trip (New York and London). I am sure things will be fine here, but I expect to be plenty tired, as NB S is still waking every 2-3 hours for feedings . We will just hope for the best, and sleep when I can.

I'm bananas about my Grandpa

dis-GUST-ing

Little A uses this word with much aplomb and gusto. She uses it for many different things but mostly she uses it to express dissatisfaction with something (food, smells, me...the list goes on).

Today, my eldest daughter, I need to borrow this word (and the powerful sentiment behind it) for THIS:

dis-GUST-ing!!

I do not consider myself to be a 'political' person--but I seriously have to question the quality of the candidates (and intellect of the voters) when THIS is the "best man for the job".

I guess I now have TWO big reasons to be happy that I am not paying taxes in Canada.

Ohhhhhhhhh Canada---

Please accept my condolences...

Ding Dong the witch is dead...?

Peter called me this morning, a few minutes after he was out the door. Usually this means he has forgotten something and is circling back around.

This morning, he wanted to tell me that Osama Bin Laden (Number One on America's Most Wanted) was dead. Apparently, his dead body was recovered outside a mansion in Pakistan.

Though many will celebrate, I am left wondering who is going to fill the void that he has left in the terrorist world. I'm sure there is someone who has been waiting in the wings...

Men tracht und gott lacht

"Men plan, God laughs"

This comes from an old Yiddish proverb. I like it. It's the story of my life (so far). It's probably the story of most people's lives.

It felt very good last week to finally take some time and send out an email to friends outlining the dates of our visit. My goal was to try and ensure that we saw as many of our friends as we could see while we were in Canada. I thought that if everyone knew when we were coming, we could try and coordinate schedules.

Bottom-line: I wanted to make some plans...

Let's see how that works out.

Week in Review

So...it is Thursday afternoon, slowly melting into Thursday evening, and our weekend is here. I'm not sure why the week has been so busy and I have not been blogging. We seriously have not gotten up to much.

On Monday, little A & N went for a shared ride on the plasma car. They both seemed to enjoy it immensely, and I had fun walking around behind them, holding onto N's head in the case that he fell off. That afternoon, I decided to take my Shrek-feet out to try Tips and Toes. They have just opened a new branch in KCA, which is just a few Las Vegas blocks over from our house (but of course, with the traffic circles it is about a 7 minute drive). They have set themselves up very nicely, in three brand new villas, and the 'Nails' villa is quite lovely. My toes look fabulous, especially now that they have shrunk back to their normal 'foot-model' size.

The treatment was adequate (and well-priced). My only complaint was that the technician sloughed off some of the skin on my toes when she was buffing the nail-bed. This hasn't happened before, and I know for next time to ask them to be more careful that they are only hitting the NAIL part of the 'toe-nail'. I was also a little chuffed to discover (after-the-fact), that I was entitled to a 20% discount, as a Raha Gardens resident.

Today is now SUNDAY (May 1). Part of the reason for me keeping up daily with my blog has been to help me differentiate my life from one day to the next, and to remember it. As it stands, I will just have to wing-it, and preserve the highlights.

On Tuesday, I had two visitors. My friend (and local real estate celeb) Drica came by in the morning. We rarely have time to get together these days as our schedules do not generally mesh. She is one of the few 'working moms' that I know (she's a realtor who has just changed companies--now heading up the Abu Dhabi branch of Cluttons). We were joined around 10, by our friend Mirha, and we had a great time yakking and sharing.

I believe Wednesday was a quiet day, with just me and the kids. This is the morning I earned a 'bad mom' award. I decided to try out the new baby sling my friend Shariza loaned me, and go for a walk. I popped baby N in this fabulous Little Tikes car, which little A has now outgrown. It was his first time going for a spin. Of course, little A had a FIT (and quite honestly, we always had to force her to sit in the car; she never enjoyed going for a ride and we often ended up pushing along an empty car while she walked beside it). SHE wanted to go in the car, and even though I suggested she go on her bike instead (multiple times) she would only be placated when I offered her to take her plasma car outside. I KNEW it would be problematic, and sure enough, every 10 seconds (no--seriously) she burst out crying "Moooo--OOOOOOM! I'm STUCK!!". The car got stuck on every second uneven brick (and we have a lot of uneven bricks out here).

Eventually, I got tired of it...and of course, THAT was when I ran into one of my neighbours, walking her "adopt-me" SAD (Strays-of-Abu-Dhabi) dog. Little A gets stuck (in the SAND this time) and starts up her wailing, and I am just shaking my head...and seriously considering just leaving her there (at this point we are one house away from our villa). This lady, obviously sensing my exasperation, says "it's okay sweetheart, I'll help you out"--making me feel like the ultimate bee-yotch...and bad mom. I offered her a feeble 'thank-you' and she says (not unkindly) "It looks like you have your hands full there".

This tale does end happily though. We returned to the house (a trek that took a lot longer than it should have), got little A's BIKE, and then she pedaled and squealed happily along for another five minutes, at which point we almost burst into flames from the heat (it was 9:45 a.m.) and came home.

On Thursday morning I had a visit with my friend Sharon (who is expecting her fourth baby). We talked babies, housemaids, and just generally caught up with one another. It was Sharon's first visit with NB, and I was amazed at how much she loves babies (I can't believe she's going to stop at four). I love MY babies...but I am definitely not what anyone would categorize as a 'baby person'--Sharon definitely is though.

Strawberry Short-(and chubby)-cake

Friday we had a much more enjoyable breakfast at the Shangri-La (joined by Uncle Ajay...although I have not informed him of his official status upgrade). This time I attached the soother to the soother clip--and we were set. She still fussed a bit (and I can hear my friend Fiona saying "you call THAT fussing?") but at least she could be settled a lot easier. We learned that Shakira was staying at the Shang (she apparently came down for breakfast much earlier), and we saw a few members of her entourage.

We went out to Dalma Mall in the afternoon and checked out Babyshop and Carrefour. We had a bit of a laugh, as little A recognized the Babyshop logo and I shouted out "A can read!! A can read!!" (inside joke). This was quite a bit of activity for NB S and baby N, and by the end of it, they both were very tired and hungry. I had to fly out of Carrefour and feed them both (VERY hard to do considering this mall has no benches installed yet--I had to find a chair in the coffee shop and turn it so my back faced all the patrons). Nursing NB with one hand, I had to help baby N hold his bottle AND try to feed him a bit of a granola bar I found in my bag, with the other.

Saturday, we went out to Al Wahda mall, and then called it a day. One trip was enough. NB S seems to dislike the stroller. I should have used the baby sling again, but I worry about her getting so hot and sweaty in it (though she seems to sleep really well in this steamy state).

And that brings us right up-to-date with today. I didn't get up to much of anything today, which, quite frankly--I feel good about. I am finding myself pretty darn tired these past few days--I guess the 2-3 hours sleep stretches are finally starting to drain me. NB S is doing well though. She is putting on weight, and starting to stay awake for longer periods of time, without demanding milk constantly. Today, I really enjoyed watching baby N come and lie next to her in her 'butterfly garden'. He worked very hard to be gentle with her and at one point, he was holding the end of her sleeve (I think he was aiming for her hand). You could tell he was pretty pleased with himself. I was pretty proud of him too.

Reeeeeeeaach!

He continues to get up to mischief, as this picture shows. He can now reach the dining table, and works to pull things down. We must be constantly vigilant, and moving things out of his reach.

I don't have many pics of little A here. The following picture shows you why. She is very reluctant these days to have her pictures taken, and often moves out of the way, puts her hand in front of the lens, or obstructs herself in some way. I am trying to respect her need for privacy.

Thank-you Bhabiji! She loves this gift!