biggish data

I guess if one returns to the UK for good they never have to worry about it. Of course, you never know what life will hold and if you thought for any reason you might return you probably want to think about being up to date on your tax returns. And you are supposed to fill out the tax returns even if you don't have to pay US tax, or so I had been informed.

Yup! That's what I have read too. That if you are a USC you are required to file a US tax return every year. I guess if you did want to return to the US to live at any time in the future it would be a good idea to comply! lol

Personally, if we are to return to the UK, which may be our only option to remain together as a family, I wouldn't ever want to return here, so they wouldn't get one from me.

We were talking about "unlawful presence" with an attorney/ex.congressman the other day and he was really pressing the point that this was something we needed to avoid at all costs, to avoid my son receiving a bar from re-entry to the US. I said "Do you think, that if my son is deported from this country, when he has done nothing wrong, that any of us would ever want to set foot in this country again?" He didn't seem to get it!

If we are given no choice but to return to the UK, I would renounce my US citizenship in a heartbeat. Uncle Sam is getting nothing from me if he can't give my family what they are rightfully entitled to.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-05 09:35:00

it's here:

http://www.irs.gov/p...s/p54/ar01.html

Foreign earned income exclusion and housing exclusion and deduction. Chapter 4 discusses income tax benefits that apply if you meet certain requirements while living abroad. You may qualify to treat up to $82,400 of your income as not taxable by the United States. You may also be able to either deduct part of your housing expenses from your income or treat a limited amount of income used for housing expenses as not taxable by the United States. These benefits are called the foreign earned income exclusion and the foreign housing deduction and exclusion.

Like all things concerning the US government, it's complicated.

From reading this particular section it appears that this is something that is applicable to persons who reside in a foreign country for longer than a US tax year and then return to the US. This is not applicable to someone that immigrates "permanently to the UK.

"Yes. You CAN claim the foreign earned income exclusion and the foreign housing exclusion or the foreign housing deduction."

As I understand it, this is where you can claim a benefit from the US government against your housing costs abroad.

About Taxes

the US imposes tax on worldwide income, regardless of country of residence. It *is* possible to alter this state of affairs, but the law requires you to resign US citizenship and bans you from ever returning to the United States again."
US imposes tax on worldwide income

I am both a USC and a UKC and I haven't lived in the UK for five years, don't own property there, and am not required to pay any taxes in the UK for what I earn/own here.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-04 20:46:00

US citizens resident abroad are liable for US taxes for income over $80k.

Can you tell me where you find this information?

It seems strange that if you live in the UK, you work in the UK, you pay UK p.a.y.e. taxes, etc. that you have to pay tax in the US, simply because you are a citizen.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-04 20:14:00

I know that if I (a USC) where to move to the UK and work I would still have to pay US taxes. Does that hold true for my UK husband? Does he need to continue to pay UK taxes while he is living in the US? I don't want us to get into any messy tax situation if we decide to move there in the future.

Thanks!

~Liza

Why would you have to pay US taxes if you were a resident of the UK? Are you talking about PP tax or income tax?

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-04 20:06:00

"When my kids say they hate their father I tell them to feel sorry for him cos he's the one missing out on what great kids they are".

I used to say this to my children too, but wasn't aware that it was actually making the situation worse! I had thought I was doing the right thing, not turning them against him, not wanting them to hate him (he was their father after all) and wanting them to realise that he felt the way he did (that I hadn't paid him enough attention while caring for my dying sister) and our splitting up was not their fault.

In the end I had to get a counselor in to talk to them, I was worried because the behavious of my youngest son was a little "off the wall". He was getting in trouble at school, fighting with his siblings, all things that were out of character. Anyway, the counselor said that I wasn't to continually try to "smooth things over", I was to let them be angry, let them direct their anger at him. I wasn't to protect him. I was shocked at the time, thinking that I was doing the right thing and protecting them, but as it turned out she was right.

Years later the children told me that they were angry at him and he needed to know it. That I was stopping them from letting out that anger and that is why my youngest son was taking it out on everybody but my ex-husband, because he didn't want to upset me.

It's funny how we can so often misinterpret a situation. They didn't hate their father, they were angry at him, but didn't know any other way to put it. Oh, they have since told him he's a kn*b! lol They see each other, when they all get together in England, but they now realise that he wasn't (and still isn't by all accounts) a very mature person and they just pity him. Sad really, but at least they can move on with their lives knowing they did their best to have a relationship with him.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-24 18:20:00

I have never used my child to 'get back at' my ex. I don't talk disparigingly about him around my home. I encourage my son to communicate with and visit his father.

I never wanted anything from my ex, nor do I now. However, I do wonder if by allowing fathers to pay nothing towards their childs upbringing is really the right way. If he had to pay something, maybe he would at least realise that in the eyes of society he still has a responsibilty towards his son and he would act in a more fatherly role. It's probably unlikely though.

I sincerely hope that you didn't think my comments were in any way aimed at you. It is so difficult to interject tone to a post and I was just commenting on how other people I know have acted.

I would hate to think I had caused you any offence - it was certainly not my intention. I agree with you 100%. It isn't right that the absent parent (not just fathers I might add) do not contribute to the upbringing of the child they contributed in making!

I never wanted anything from my ex when it came to child support. Unfortunately, because he left when I didn't have a job, and had to claim Income Support, the CSA got involved. I was awarded 2p a month and they sent it to me in the form of a cheque!

All the children ever wanted from him was for him to be a father, absent if that was his choice. But he couldn't even do that for them. Now that they are 18 years old, and still fighting to gain his attention, I see the damage he caused them was nothing to do with money and so that was never worth fighting.

Again, my sincere apologies if I caused you any personal offence, that was not what I had intended.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-24 13:46:00

The lack of extra income didn't bother me. However, I thought/think that it shows the total lack of respect that my ex has for his son by allowing himself to wallow in this no income situation. An adult who thinks it's ok to live off the state for years, not a very good role model. Sadly, I know that he sees himself as a victim and has no idea how to help himself.

It is sad when absent parents see themselves as a victim, and in some cases the parent with care and control of the children can make them feel that way. I have known many women that felt the money side of things is what made you a good parent - it isn't. Spending time with them, explaining that they are in no way to blame for the situation, enjoying being with them and having fun, and most-importantly not using the time to "bash" the other parent.

I understand what you are saying about the "wallowing in self pity" and yet he didn't seem to make much of an effort to find work to allow him to provide a better life for his child, but once you allow yourself to get low like that it is really very difficult to pull yourself out of it! It does show a lack of respect for the child, but it shows lack of respect for yourself moreso, in my opinion.

It is difficult bringing up children on your own, but the rewards of being able to say to yourself "I didn't do such a bad job" is tremendous!

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-24 05:31:00

Not so long ago I went for a job interview at the Child Support section of Social Services in Virginia. I was surprised when the Legal Counsel there told me that there are reciprosity agreements with the UK and they can enforce child support orders made by the CSA in England.

Personally, I would contact the Social Services Department in your State and ASK them outright what powers they have to enforce child support orders issued in the UK by the CSA. They don't have to know any of your details - just ask a generic question. Maybe you can find out on the Social Services website.

I do feel that parents should be jointly financially responsible for their children, no matter where in the world they choose to live, but I do think these payments need to be reasonable. The CSA in the UK is renound for making ridiculous Orders for payment. When my ex-husband left me with three young children and no job - after caring for my sister who was dying of cancer - he was Ordered by the CSA to pay 2 pence per month in child support! Seriously, 2p a month! They even sent me a cheque for that amount! I should have kept it and framed it. There are instances also where amounts just leave the absent parent penniless, which isn't right.

I would first find out from the Child Support Agency here, in your state, what powers they have of enforcement of a UK Order for child support and then decide where to go from there. You may find that an agreement simply made between the two of you is the best thing all round for the child.

I have NEVER heard of anything so crazy!

It was pretty funny really - I had three kids on my own and had no means of income, when he left. I went straight out and got myself a job (working for the US government, funnily enough!) and we managed quite nicely, even without child support of any kind from "dad". After the episode where the CSA sent me a cheque for 2p, I phoned them and told them not to waste taxpayers' money sending this meagre amount out because the stamp and the production of the cheque cost considerably more than the value of the payment. They told me "Sorry madam, but we have to pay any amount over to the parent claiming because we can't be seen to be witholding their money!" hahahaha

A month or so later, when they decided that he should be paying more, 30 quid a month it went up to, he would come over to pick the kids up to take them to his house to watch t.v.!! I handed him the cheque, signed the back, and told him to use it to take them somewhere.

I guess the kids benefitted somewhat - at least they didn't have to sit in front of the t.v. all weekend when they went to visit their Dad!

did you give him the 2p one as well?

What a dique! Sorry, but taking back the checks? He oughta be ashamed!

Unfortunately, he thought the grass was greener on the, proverbial, other side of the fence. It just didn't turn out that way for him. I am thankful that the children didn't really suffer because of his lack of financial support and they are understanding of the sacrifices I had to make in order for them to have a good life. No real harm was done by him not paying and, no, I didn't give him the cheque for 2p. I don't remember what I did with it - I really wish I had kept it and had it framed, just for a laugh!

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-21 19:53:00

Not so long ago I went for a job interview at the Child Support section of Social Services in Virginia. I was surprised when the Legal Counsel there told me that there are reciprosity agreements with the UK and they can enforce child support orders made by the CSA in England.

Personally, I would contact the Social Services Department in your State and ASK them outright what powers they have to enforce child support orders issued in the UK by the CSA. They don't have to know any of your details - just ask a generic question. Maybe you can find out on the Social Services website.

I do feel that parents should be jointly financially responsible for their children, no matter where in the world they choose to live, but I do think these payments need to be reasonable. The CSA in the UK is renound for making ridiculous Orders for payment. When my ex-husband left me with three young children and no job - after caring for my sister who was dying of cancer - he was Ordered by the CSA to pay 2 pence per month in child support! Seriously, 2p a month! They even sent me a cheque for that amount! I should have kept it and framed it. There are instances also where amounts just leave the absent parent penniless, which isn't right.

I would first find out from the Child Support Agency here, in your state, what powers they have of enforcement of a UK Order for child support and then decide where to go from there. You may find that an agreement simply made between the two of you is the best thing all round for the child.

I have NEVER heard of anything so crazy!

It was pretty funny really - I had three kids on my own and had no means of income, when he left. I went straight out and got myself a job (working for the US government, funnily enough!) and we managed quite nicely, even without child support of any kind from "dad". After the episode where the CSA sent me a cheque for 2p, I phoned them and told them not to waste taxpayers' money sending this meagre amount out because the stamp and the production of the cheque cost considerably more than the value of the payment. They told me "Sorry madam, but we have to pay any amount over to the parent claiming because we can't be seen to be witholding their money!" hahahaha

A month or so later, when they decided that he should be paying more, 30 quid a month it went up to, he would come over to pick the kids up to take them to his house to watch t.v.!! I handed him the cheque, signed the back, and told him to use it to take them somewhere.

I guess the kids benefitted somewhat - at least they didn't have to sit in front of the t.v. all weekend when they went to visit their Dad!

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-21 15:26:00

Not so long ago I went for a job interview at the Child Support section of Social Services in Virginia. I was surprised when the Legal Counsel there told me that there are reciprosity agreements with the UK and they can enforce child support orders made by the CSA in England.

Personally, I would contact the Social Services Department in your State and ASK them outright what powers they have to enforce child support orders issued in the UK by the CSA. They don't have to know any of your details - just ask a generic question. Maybe you can find out on the Social Services website.

I do feel that parents should be jointly financially responsible for their children, no matter where in the world they choose to live, but I do think these payments need to be reasonable. The CSA in the UK is renound for making ridiculous Orders for payment. When my ex-husband left me with three young children and no job - after caring for my sister who was dying of cancer - he was Ordered by the CSA to pay 2 pence per month in child support! Seriously, 2p a month! They even sent me a cheque for that amount! I should have kept it and framed it. There are instances also where amounts just leave the absent parent penniless, which isn't right.

I would first find out from the Child Support Agency here, in your state, what powers they have of enforcement of a UK Order for child support and then decide where to go from there. You may find that an agreement simply made between the two of you is the best thing all round for the child.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-18 17:19:00

What do you miss the most from the UK?

What I miss most is speaking the same language! Although I have been here 5 years I still regularly have those moments where I think to myself "Now, what's the word they use for that here?"

I went to Martin's to do some grocery shopping yesterday - the woman cashier said that her brother had taken an English doctorate in Leeds. She loved to hear him talk. She held up the entire queue for about 5 minutes while she laughed her way through phrases like "I've got a ladder in my tights" and telling me how hilarious it was that people aren't allowed to drive on the "pavement" in England!

I so enjoy a good "chin wag" with friends in the UK.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-19 08:30:00

chip and pin on credit cards?

Went to the UK in May of last year - the chip and pin thing was a real probem, many places simply wouldn't take my US card.

Just got back from three months in the UK and it seems that the "teething problems" have been sorted and my card was taken EVERYWHERE, no problem.

From what I was told by various retailers in the UK, they were losing so much business from overseas customers that they kicked up a fuss and it was sorted. Retailers in places like Canterbury, high tourist spend, were losing out big-time.

So, don't worry - you shouldn't have a problem at all now. I wasn't asked once during my recent 3 month stay whether my card had a chip and pin.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-04-23 14:14:00

Lily Allen

She don't half look like her Dad though. She can probably sing better than him though....lol

"Vindaloo" was a pretty good song though - you have to admit!

Girona40

Female

England

2007-04-29 16:00:00

You may not leave this discussion, but you'll be having it with yourself. I'm sorry, but your tone is just too angry, and I'm making an effort to extract myself from these situations.

Seems to me all veggies are angry at something or other, #### need to eat a steak and relax a bit

I am not angry. However, I am extremely disappointed that the moment a vegetarian expresses their views on the subject of meat eating, they are subjected to profanity, such as this. It shows a total lack of maturity and respect for others opinions. Maybe they feel that because they have no answer for the points raised in a post it is simply easier to resort to the use of such derogatory language.

I don't know how you can ascertain my "tone" from the written word, Alex. Just let me say tht you have got it totally wrong.

I have been posting on this site for years and have enjoyed many a good debate with other members. But lately I find some posters unable to participate in such debate without resorting to abusive language. For this reason I will not be participating on this board in future. I hope that all of you have a safe "journey".

G.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-17 09:36:00

Listen, I'm not trying to start a flame war on a thread about chocolate here. I'm glad you care about chickens! Rescuing them is also very noble, IMO, and you should be proud of yourself. You just gave me the impression that you saw meat as murder and that there was no middle ground. My comments about most people not caring where their meat came from obviously was not about you, as you're a vegetarian, and not about your family. It was about most Americans. I'm sure you've asked where things came from, but most people don't, and I don't see how you can't agree to that. I will become a vegetarian again, but dietary changes are best made slowly (hence my move to getting meat and most animal products out of my diet by the end of summer). I hope you can live with that and respect the fact that just because you may have misunderstood what I wrote, you can't assume I'm being contradictory or hypocritical. I have actually put thought into this and I'm ok with where I'm at.

I never thought for one minute you were trying to start a war of any kind, flame or otherwise. I don't know where you got the impression that I saw meat as "murder" and there was "no middle ground". I live with a man who enjoys his steak/bacon/ribs and chops. How could I hold such an opinion and be happily married to such a man?

The one thing, Alex, that really concerns me about your posts is how you generalise, or make sweeping statements. How can you comment about "most Americans" in these situations? Have you spoken to ALL Americans to come up with the view that "most" of them don't care where their meat comes from?

Why do you think that the food industry in America is making such strides to change the product they supply? Why are companies, such as KFC, now informing the public that their product contains "O grams of Trans fat", or MacDonalds switched from animal fat to vegetable oil in its fries? Could it be to do with the fact that they are taking notice of the public's interest in what they are eating?

Unfortunately, Burger King feels that purchasing 10% of its pig meat from farmers that don't use farrowing crates, or that converting to using 2% of it's eggs from free-range sources really cuts it! I think it is a pathetic attempt!

Anyway, I am going to leave this discussion here. I am very comfortable where I sit on this subject and hope that you are happy with the choices you make in your life.

Good Luck!

Again, "most people" don't ask about their food? How do you know that?

Finally, I don't agree that dietary changes should be made slowly and would love to hear of a doctor that said "saturated fat should be eliminated from your diet...............slowly".

I know I can live with the (fact) that you say you are going to return to vegetarianism by the Summer. I have my doubts that you will, though, because you seem to be continually justifying why you eat meat now.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-16 20:19:00

"I was saying that the average person has a little bit of a hypocritical streak when it comes to eating meat"

I just had to comment on this, I couldn't walk away from it. I just do not understand your way of thinking, on this matter, at all.

"I'm hoping to move back to vegetarianism by the end of summer" - but I don't have a problem eating meat now.

"Difficult when hubster does all the cooking and is a serious carnivore" - I don't see what your husband's eating habits have to do with your choices at all. My husband kills, prepares, cooks and eats meat, but that doesn't mean I do.

"I have never eaten baby animals" - but it's not a problem to eat their parents.

I just don't get your rationale on the subject.

I'm not sure why you've chosen to go after me, someone who at least cares about where my meat comes from, as opposed to most people who eat any old meat. I would like to go back to vegetarianism just to avoid the problem of determining where my meat comes from all the time, not because I have a huge problem eating animals period. In some ways it does bother me, but I always feel healthier when I'm eating meat, so it's difficult for me to decide. I don't like eating baby animals, or cow stomach chemicals, or brains, or sheep testicles, so what? That is no more your business than it's mine how much chocolate you consume. I'm happy to discuss my choices, but I see no need for attacks.

I was going to say the difference between vegetarians and vegans is that vegetarians are usually less pushy and self-righteous about the subject, but I may have to change my view.

I have no need to "go after" anyone - I was, merely, pointing out that I did not understand your rationale.

I still don't understand your reasoning. Where do you get your information that "most people" eat "any old meat"? What is your definition of "any old meat"? To me, meat is meat, the part of a dead animal, considered edible.

This time you say "I have a huge problem eating animals period", but then go on to say you "feel healthier when I'm eating meat".

You "don't like eating baby animals, or cow stomach chemicals, or brains, or sheep testicles, so what?" So, why post it if you don't expect anyone to comment? It is indeed your business and I have no interest in your personal choices, in anything, just curious as to your reasoning. You say are "happy to discuss" your choices, but when someone points out that they don't understand the reasoning behind the choices you are making, you consider it an "attack". Nothing could be further from the truth - I was merely asking you to explain it to me. If you can't do that, or you don't want to, that's fine.

Being "pushy and self-righteous" are not characteristics of vegetarians, vegans, or meat eaters. They are terms that can be applied to any individual who is aggressive or passionate about a subject and intolerent of the opinions of others. Therefore, they can be used to describe any individual with these traits, not just non meat eaters.

Please read carefully. I said "NOT because I have a huge problem eating meat period." I don't. I get my information that most people eat "any old meat" because I have pretty much never heard anyone walk into McDonalds and ask where the meat for the burgers came from or ask the waitress at a restaurant where the chicken was from? You are operating on the idea that the only reason someone wouldn't eat meat would be because they think meat is murder. There are other reasons that you aren't taking into account. I only eat meat that I am sure has been brought to my table from animals that were farm-raised in a small local farm. To you it doesn't matter if chickens are raised in tiny cages that destroy their feet and cause painful infections and are given chemicals to turn them into circus freaks, because when someone eats that chicken it's the same as a chicken who was raised in a happy farm life til it was old enough to be eaten. Those things do matter to me and there is a big difference.

If you are really concerned about animal welfare, I hope you don't eat eggs or at least buy some verified small-farm eggs (not just organic) and that you don't eat any products outside the home prepared with eggs. That's where farm animals are treated the cruelest. I think the reasons for vegetarianism have changed with the way meat production has changed and since you have been one for so long you may not be aware of these issues.

What is my business is my business, but I am happy to share it with you or anyone and I am happy to hear comments. However, I hope those comments recognize that each person has their own preferences.

You still haven't told me why you singled me out over all the meat eaters of the world. Any answer?

I will answer your last question first. The reason I chose to "respond" to your post was NOT to single you out. I reply to many posts on the VJ site, those posted by meat eaters and vegetarians alike, but yours struck me as one of the most contradictory in its rationale.

I have had no problem in asking at MacDonalds where their meat, and other produce, comes from and have done so. I made a point, back in 1997, which is when MacDonalds came within 40 miles of where I lived, never to purchase from them as they used animal/vegetable fat when producing their fries. Have never touched anything sold by them since.

Not everyone is prepared to eat "any old meat" as you call it. My family will not eat "meat" that is prepared from hoof, hair, skin, etc., i.e. sausages, scrapple, etc. Only meat that they have either killed themselves, or meat produced by companies that treat their animals humanely prior to slaughter. I don't agree with eating meat at all, but the men in my household choose to eat meat and it is not my place to dictate to them that they should do otherwise.

"You are operating on the idea that the only reason someone wouldn't eat meat would be because they think meat is murder". That is a presumptious statement. You do not know what my ideas are on why someone would choose not to eat meat. I did not chose to become a vegetarian for the reason you state, but for other "personal" reasons.

You are quite right when you state that chickens suffer very cruel conditions. I have rescued many battery hens in my lifetime and given them the lives they deserved. So, your comment "To you it doesn't matter if chickens are raised in tiny cages that destroy their feet and cause painful infections and are given chemicals to turn them into circus freaks, because when someone eats that chicken it's the same as a chicken who was raised in a happy farm life til it was old enough to be eaten" is just total BS! You have no idea how I feel about the raising of chickens! Don't tell me, or everyone else on this board that it DOESN'T MATTER TO ME - you don't know me!

I can assure you that I am well aware of the issues of modern-day farming and animal welfare, and like I said, you don't know me, you don't know anything about my beliefs or knowledge on the subject, so please don't make such sweeping remarks about me that are totally untrue, or misguiding. If you are prepared to share your views on the subject, that is one thing, but don't think or presume that your views are that of everybody else here. They are not.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-16 16:17:00

"I was saying that the average person has a little bit of a hypocritical streak when it comes to eating meat"

I just had to comment on this, I couldn't walk away from it. I just do not understand your way of thinking, on this matter, at all.

"I'm hoping to move back to vegetarianism by the end of summer" - but I don't have a problem eating meat now.

"Difficult when hubster does all the cooking and is a serious carnivore" - I don't see what your husband's eating habits have to do with your choices at all. My husband kills, prepares, cooks and eats meat, but that doesn't mean I do.

"I have never eaten baby animals" - but it's not a problem to eat their parents.

I just don't get your rationale on the subject.

I'm not sure why you've chosen to go after me, someone who at least cares about where my meat comes from, as opposed to most people who eat any old meat. I would like to go back to vegetarianism just to avoid the problem of determining where my meat comes from all the time, not because I have a huge problem eating animals period. In some ways it does bother me, but I always feel healthier when I'm eating meat, so it's difficult for me to decide. I don't like eating baby animals, or cow stomach chemicals, or brains, or sheep testicles, so what? That is no more your business than it's mine how much chocolate you consume. I'm happy to discuss my choices, but I see no need for attacks.

I was going to say the difference between vegetarians and vegans is that vegetarians are usually less pushy and self-righteous about the subject, but I may have to change my view.

I have no need to "go after" anyone - I was, merely, pointing out that I did not understand your rationale.

I still don't understand your reasoning. Where do you get your information that "most people" eat "any old meat"? What is your definition of "any old meat"? To me, meat is meat, the part of a dead animal, considered edible.

This time you say "I have a huge problem eating animals period", but then go on to say you "feel healthier when I'm eating meat".

You "don't like eating baby animals, or cow stomach chemicals, or brains, or sheep testicles, so what?" So, why post it if you don't expect anyone to comment? It is indeed your business and I have no interest in your personal choices, in anything, just curious as to your reasoning. You say are "happy to discuss" your choices, but when someone points out that they don't understand the reasoning behind the choices you are making, you consider it an "attack". Nothing could be further from the truth - I was merely asking you to explain it to me. If you can't do that, or you don't want to, that's fine.

Being "pushy and self-righteous" are not characteristics of vegetarians, vegans, or meat eaters. They are terms that can be applied to any individual who is aggressive or passionate about a subject and intolerent of the opinions of others. Therefore, they can be used to describe any individual with these traits, not just non meat eaters.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-16 06:12:00

Girona, you'll love Green & Black's. It costs more, but it's SO MUCH better and so much more chocolatey .. so if you would otherwise have let's say a mars bar (60 g) you'll get the same satisfaction of the chocolate having 20-30 g of G&B so you'll need a lot less chocolate. Or the big chocolate bar will last you so much longer.

Well, I have to nip out now to get a picnic table for the woods - don't ask, I have been clearing leaves and fallen trees all morning!!! I am going to stop in at the store and pick up a bar of G&B. I will give you my verdict later. I feel I have earned a "treat" today!

I don't know, Mars bars kinda lost their credibility with me when I heard what Marianne Faithful had been doing with hers! lol But then I guess she gained a lot of "Satisfaction" from hers. I wonder if that is where Mick Jagger's lyrics "I can't get no satisfaction" came from - couldn't get a big enough bite!!! lol

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-15 14:16:00

Derrrrrrrrrrr! I was only kidding!

I don't eat chocolate very much - I usually bring it back to the US with me when I have been on a visit to the UK.

I gave it up for Lent and didn't have a problem - in fact, when I did allow myself to have it again, I didn't really want it anyway.

I do like a bit of chocolate every now and again, but like Mags says "If I want to stuff my face with chocolate every day of my life, then I will!" lol

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-15 12:02:00

Girona just switch to Green & Black's. http://www.greenandblacks.com

I may just have to do that! I was just talking to my husband about how deprived I am going to feel, now that I can't eat Galaxy, and mentioned your suggestion. He said it was pretty good chocolate!

But, I am a bit weird in some ways........I know you all find that really hard to believe.........if I were to buy Green & Black's chocolate I would feel guilty, because I feel it is more of a "luxury" product. I would feel that I shouldn't be buying it, whereas I could buy half a dozen bars of "old cheapie" Galaxy and not think anything of it!

Maybe, like I said before, it would be a good thing. I could buy Green & Black's chocolate as a "treat" and not so much as a staple!

I still feel pretty p*ssed that Mars have done this!

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-15 10:29:00

Galaxy is made by Mars, so I would guess the answer is yes. Better stick to Cadbury's in future.

I can't stand Cadbury's chocolate - I find it has a rancid taste. So that isn't an option for me.

I looked up this question of whey being used in Masterfood's chocolate and they say that any bars with a "best before" date of 1st October 07 don't have the animal whey in, so vegetarians are okay to eat this. Any with a "best before" date after 1st October 07 has animal whey in it.

Letter to Customer from Masterfoods

I guess I am just going to wither away now! :crying:

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-15 09:55:00

"I was saying that the average person has a little bit of a hypocritical streak when it comes to eating meat"

I just had to comment on this, I couldn't walk away from it. I just do not understand your way of thinking, on this matter, at all.

"I'm hoping to move back to vegetarianism by the end of summer" - but I don't have a problem eating meat now.

"Difficult when hubster does all the cooking and is a serious carnivore" - I don't see what your husband's eating habits have to do with your choices at all. My husband kills, prepares, cooks and eats meat, but that doesn't mean I do.

"I have never eaten baby animals" - but it's not a problem to eat their parents.

I just don't get your rationale on the subject.

Edited by Girona40, 15 May 2007 - 09:37 AM.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-15 09:36:00

I've been a vegetarian for 26 years. Husband a meat-eater and hunter. He likes the taste of meat, I can't stand the thought of eating it!Can't say it has ever been a problem.

I don't think it has anything to do with denial, though. My son eats meat and, as part of his vet's training he had to visit a slaughterhouse and witness animals being killed and prepared for the meat industry. He stopped at MacDonalds on the way home!

My daughter has been a vegetarian since she was 5 years old - her choice. Both she and I will prepare meat for my husband and son, just won't eat it ourselves.

As for chocolate containing animal rennet - does anyone know if Galaxy chocolate does?

Edited by Girona40, 14 May 2007 - 09:52 PM.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-05-14 21:50:00

Happily Married

This thread should properly be labeled as solutions and advice for people who have a decent income!
Of course I am glad everything turned out well for you Russ, but your advice sure requires some money to carry out.

Like I said above - the car advice doesn't necessarily apply if you live in a big city. In most of Florida (where we live), a car is really a necessity. If finances permit, I think it is still a good idea.

You will probably get a better deal if you have a few months to shop around for something cheap, rather than being forced to buy a car as soon as you find a job.

I was shocked at how much my wife's auto insurance was (my insurer insisted that she was listed, even when she didn't have a license).

As for insurance covering the loss of a car - obviously it isn't the purchase price. It is more than a dealer would offer me to trade it though (since I am planning to replace it soon anyway).

There are insurance companies, though, that DO provide a brand new car, if you are insuring a vehicle purchased new, with them. They were only advertising it on the tv last night.

Girona40

Female

England

2006-03-06 12:54:00

Age of Majority in Russia

Technically, the daughter does not need the permission of her father to make the decision herself to live in the US.

As far as K-2's not aging-out is concerned - read my profile and the story I have list ed on it. It will give you an idea of what can happen. I agree, K-2's should not age-out, but the immigration officers, caseworkers and even District and Regional Directors cannot agree on the matter!

As far as the Immigraiton and Nationality Act is concerned, the "child" is a "child" up to the age of 21. There is a section of the INA which is entitled "Definitions" and this is where you will find what the USCIS considers the definition of "child" to be. However, it doesn't state in the INA with regard to K-2's that they have to be a "child" at the time of adjustment, only at the time of application - after they have entered on the K-2 and the K-1 parent has married the original petitioner within 90 days of arrival.

If you have any further questions on this matter please don't hesitate to PM me. Unfortunately a lot of people on this forum are too happy to give you advice. They are well-meaning, however, most of them have not experienced dealing with an age-out situation and are simply not correct.

Hope this helps.

Girona40

Female

England

2006-06-06 14:37:00

Brining my Mom to the USA

Girona40,

Thank you for your attention! That's the problem we have - when she applied she provided a lot of documents you've mentioned - proof of ownership and letter from her employer. My mom is a widower and I'm the only child so I think this is what got them scared that she doesn't have any interest to stay in russia and she will stay in YSA when she comes. But that is not true. She has a job and we don't have any intentions to leave her here unless now and then when I can file I-130 we will do that/ We just don't know what else to do to proov she is not going to stay illigaly here. So SAD!!!!

I know that sometimes the Immigration regulations seem so hard on people - and much of the time they are. I guess they have had so many people in the past that come to visit and just stay that they are now very cautious when people who have family that immigrated not so long ago, then want to come and visit. I know that this is not what your mother is doing, but you just have to convince them of that. Like I said, ask them directly what documents they are looking for, what documents can your mother provide in order that she can come and visit you in the US.

Good Luck - I know how sad it is when you don't get to see your mother much. I miss mine terribly too.

Hugs
G.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-07 15:13:00

Brining my Mom to the USA

I'm a permanent resident of the USA and my husband is a US citizen. I know I can't file 1-130 to bring my mom to the USA before I become a US citizen. So we tried to bring her here as a visitor just for couple of months but when she applied for a visa she didn't get it (as they explained she didn't demonstrate tight connection with Russia). Unless she has some additional documents to show they they advised her not to try again. Any ideas on that? Or maybe somebody had been in such situation? Any help would be appreciated !!!

Annabelle, that is such a sad situation and I truly sympathise. I can't imagine what it must be like to be unable to get your mother here for a visit, prior to you being able to file an I-130 for her. I am thankful that I come from a country that has the Visa Waiver Program - not that my parents have used it more than once.

I don't know what documents were submitted with your mother's tourist visa application, so I am answering this "blind" really, but things like rental/home ownership documents, a letter from her employer (if she has one), etc, are the kind of documents I would provide. You could always make a call to the consulate and ask, specifically, what documents they are looking for.

Good Luck!
G.

Girona40

Female

England

2007-01-07 14:58:00

UK to US Visa Free, IS marriage allowed

Well, after alot of crying, and alot of reading all this..

I called and talked to him last night...

I told him everything I was told by USCIS and by you people here..

We talked for over 2 hours (another big phone bill), when I hung up with him he was crying.. but hurting him now will be easier than him getting hurt later on...

Hes young he will find someone else, someone is own age... I am deleting my membership from this site as I will no longer need it... I cant take him from everything hes known all his life, into a country as cold and cruel as the US... Marrying me he will already loose his family and friends, if he did stay hed loose his job and home too, he says it doesnt matter, but it does to me... God, why are the Brits so down on the US???
Thanks for all the help.. But honestly, you did more accusing than helping...

I think the comments everyone left you were very helpful. We did the best we could to give you the information you asked for. People here aren't experts on immigration, we're in the same boat as you. We've just done research and try to help each other out when we can.

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-06 09:44:00

UK to US Visa Free, IS marriage allowed

Okay well after reading all this, I paniced so I called the INS, and since he is coming legally on a Visa Free. We can get married, and they gave me a list of forms we have to file immediately... But he can stay with me in the states... She said since he is not coming mainly to marry me but to see the country and we aew already engaged if we decide to get married in the 90 days, the sooner the better, so we can get the forms filed in a timely manner... So this is what we are going to do, I will update all as I know more... Thanks all for the advice...

That doesn't sound like anything I've ever heard/read about. I'd definitely check into that again before doing it. I've read alot of posts on here well people have been giving wrong information from people who should have known what they were talking about. I recommend doing research before taking a huge step like that. I hate waiting and searched for a way to keep my fiance with me, but I didn't find any way to do it, so he's back home. You'll probably just have to bite the bullet and wait like everyone else.

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-05 16:16:00

Regarding Police Certificates

That's similar to the form my fiance had to fill out, but not identical. He filled this one out online and printed it ( http://www.northants...ey/form164.aspx ), but when he took it to the police station they handed him another one (he said it was the same form) and told him to fill it out and mail it an address they gave him. He just sent them the one he printed. Yesterday he received a letter that said they had forwarded it to Scotland Yard and he should hear about it within 40 days.

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-19 18:23:00

Did anyone watch Posh's TV show last night?

I completely forgot about it. :blink:

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-18 10:09:00

What about my luggage while waiting for immigration

Good luck on your trip! I think you're luggage will be fine. Like many of the posters have already said, it will probably be pulled to the side.

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-24 16:21:00

prescription drugs

I went into my uk doctors to see about staying on their books cos i'll be spending a fair amount of time in the uk still, and got told that could only happen if i wasnt registering with a doctor over here.... I can get on bills insurance so i will be having a doctor here, but the docs back in the uk are still willing to see me as a visitor.They also done me a 6 year med print out and didnt charge.

Will they be charging alot more to see you as a visitor?

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-10 16:26:00

prescription drugs

I'm petitioning for my British fiance and was wondering once he gets here is he still allowed to have prescription medication sent to him from England? I'm not sure if he's still allowed to use the NHS for that or not.

I'm looking for health insurance for my fiance, too. I'm a student so he can't get covered on my insurance. I think we have him a job lined up with good health insurance, but we need something to bridge the gap until he gets his EAD. I didn't even think about him bringing prescriptions here with him. It might work for awhile since your fiance will still be a UKC, but like Kez said, he wouldn't be living there. You should probably have him talk to someone in charge, but I doubt he'd be able to.

My wife got free prescriptions because of diabetes in the UK. Cost us about $110 a month here. Also no insurance company would accept her here and she had to go into the Oregon Medical Pool, and we pay about $470 a month for her medical cover though that scheme.

That's awful that they wouldn't cover her. What is the Oregon Medical Pool? My fiance has asthma and I'm worried he won't be able to get coverage.

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-10 15:44:00

What's "your" song?

We don't really have one, but everytime we hear the Fray's "How to Save a Life" we get really excited and turn it up. Not because it's lovey dovey or anything, but because it's on Scrubs and we LOVE that show. So I guess instead of a song we have a show

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-26 15:48:00

Help with all this visa slang.

HI I can remember this time not so long ago when i didnt know this..NOA 1 is the letter you get from ur service center indicating that they recieved ur case..it will also have ur reciept number number and u can log on to https://egov.uscis.g.../jsps/index.jsp and track the progress on your case...the NOA 2 is the letter that is sent w/the approval from the service center....good luck!

Me too, but I was afraid to ask. I just lurked around until I saw where someone explained it. Same with the touches.

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-08-01 10:44:00

UK Postal Strike

Its a series of strikes over the next two weeks.

http://www.royalmail...ediaId=51600692

UGH! That does stink! So they're stepping it up now. I hope it is resolved quickly for the sake of all UK Visa seekers!

I hope so.

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-23 11:41:00

Friend is looking for a Scottish Husband

She went to a presentation on syphonic roof drains that was by a man from Scotland and ever since she is in love with the idea of a "Sean Connery (young version)" type.

Is it just me, or does this feel like a giant piss take? lol I'm so sorry if you are serious but this thread has had me rolling!

I love my hubby with all my heart but never in a million years did I see myself with a Scotsman. I can only speak for the Scots men I know, but they are a rare, strange, and wonderful breed of hard (hairy) asses, sarcastic bastards, at times cold and detached, and amazingly confident and proud. (perhaps maybe because most I know have served in the military?)

At any rate, my advice for your friend: please for heavens sake, don't base a relationship on an obsession with a flashy syphonic roof drain lecturer That does not a long lasting love make! Base it on something more rudimentary like a masonry lecturer; building the foundation for a better life!

PS - Sean Connery has a lisp

My fiance has Scottish blood in him...and you just described him perfectly. :lol:

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-07-26 15:21:00

Where in the UK are you or your SO from?

My fiance is from Northampton, England

Clarky and Tarah

Not Telling

United Kingdom

2007-06-28 14:50:00